A high-level dialogue titled “Climate-Resilient Cities and Communities along the Caspian Sea - Unlocking Vertical Climate Finance for Urban Adaptation” was held on May 19 as part of the 13th Session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13).

The event brought together senior government officials, representatives of the United Nations, international financial institutions, and development partners to discuss the growing climate challenges facing the Caspian region, The Caspian Post reports, citing AZERTAC.

Participants exchanged views on how climate finance, strategic partnerships, and innovative approaches can contribute to scalable, inclusive, and human-centered urban adaptation efforts.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Agakerim Samadzade, First Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, stressed that the consequences of climate change are becoming increasingly severe every year, with rising temperatures and diminishing water resources creating new environmental and socio-economic challenges.

He stated that the falling water level of the Caspian Sea has already emerged as a major concern for the region. According to Samadzade, the issue is affecting the lives of millions of people, impacting sectors ranging from fisheries and coastal livelihoods to tourism and the broader ecosystem surrounding the Caspian basin.

The discussions continued under the moderation of Mahir Aliyev, Regional Coordinator of the United Nations Environment Programme, with participants focusing on practical solutions and regional cooperation aimed at strengthening climate resilience in urban communities along the Caspian Sea.