China’s Urban Development Highlighted

On May 19, 2026, Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, hosted a side event titled ‘Quality and Secure Housing for Sustainable Urban Future’ during the 13th World Urban Forum. This event was a collaborative effort between UN-Habitat and the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Housing, Urban-Rural Development and Management.n

The event included sessions that shared China’s urban development practices and fostered global collaboration. Anacláudia Rossbach, UN under-secretary-general and executive director of UN-Habitat, attended the event and delivered a speech. She stated, ‘China has been a key partner for UN-Habitat and a major contributor to advancing the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.’n

Rossbach emphasised, ‘China’s experiences in green, inclusive, and smart urban development provide valuable lessons for other countries, particularly in the Global South.’ Her insights highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable urban futures.n

China’s Commitment to Urban Renewaln

Wang Shengjun, Chief Economist of China’s Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, emphasised China’s commitment to a people-centred approach in urban renewal. ‘China will focus on providing safe, comfortable, green, and smart housing,’ he said, underscoring the country’s dedication to sustainable living environments.n

Gao Shiyun, deputy director of the Shanghai Municipal Commission, introduced key initiatives such as the Shanghai Award and the SDG Cities Global Conference. These initiatives reinforce Shanghai’s role in promoting sustainable urban development on a global scale.n

During the forum, it was announced, ‘The Global Observance of World Cities Day 2026 will take place in Fuzhou this October.’ the 2026 SDG Cities Global Conference will be held in Shanghai, further emphasising China’s leadership in urban development.n

The China City Pavilion, located at the Baku Olympic Stadium, showcased Shanghai’s practices in creating livable, resilient, and smart cities. This attracted significant attention from attendees and highlighted the practical applications of China’s urban strategies.n

Zheng Degao, Vice President of the China Academy of Urban Planning and Design, presented the main contents of China’s National Report on the Implementation of the New Urban Agenda. His presentation shared China’s policy experiences and practical progress in sustainable urban development.

Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:58 am