OTS approves cooperation on sustainable urban development

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A high-level meeting of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) dedicated to urban dialogue and sustainable urbanization was held on 19 May 2026 in Baku on the sidelines of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum.

The event brought together ministers and senior officials from member states and observer countries responsible for urban development and housing policy.

During the meeting, OTS Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev noted that rapid urban growth, population increases, environmental challenges, and social inequality require a comprehensive approach to urban planning. He emphasized that sustainable urban development is one of the priority areas of cooperation within the organization.

Participants exchanged views on prospects for expanding regional cooperation in housing policy and sustainable urbanization. Special attention was paid to issues of climate change adaptation in cities, disaster risk reduction, and opportunities for financing joint projects to upgrade urban infrastructure.

Following the meeting, a memorandum of understanding on urban and spatial planning and sustainable urban development was signed.

The document provides for the creation of a technical cooperation mechanism aimed at developing sustainable, digital, and resilient cities while preserving the national architectural traditions and cultural heritage of OTS member states.