Deputy Minister: 'We aim to achieve balance between villages and cities'

"In the new strategic development stage of Azerbaijan, we aim to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation orientation and financial stability of the national economy, to achieve a balance between villages and cities to make the economic growth inclusive and sustainable," Deputy Minister of Economy Elnur Aliyev said at the National Urban Forum held in Aghdam, Report informs.

"Currently, 55% of the world's population lives in cities. By 2050, this number will reach 70%. As the urbanization process continues worldwide, achieving sustainable development will depend on the successful management of cities. Integrated policies are needed to improve the lives of both urban and rural people. As a result of steps taken to achieve the goals, differences between urban and rural living standards will be reduced. The economic and natural potential of the regions will be used effectively," he noted.

"Following Azerbaijan's long-term inclusive development model, the main goal is to establish a modern production infrastructure in the liberated territories, attract investments to apply modern technologies, and effectively realize the region's potential. For this purpose, all kinds of conditions have been provided for entrepreneurs in the industrial parks created in the liberated territories.