LAHORE – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is set to depart for Baku on Saturday (today) for a three-day official visit to participate in the World Urban Forum, where she will present Punjab’s flagship affordable housing initiative on an international platform.
In a post on X, the chief minister said she would be leaving for Baku to attend the global forum and showcase Punjab’s sustainable urban development model, particularly the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” programme.
She said it would be a “singular honour” to present the initiative at the Pakistan Pavilion, describing it as a people-centric model focused on inclusive urban development, affordable housing, and sustainable communities for low-income families.
According to the chief minister, out of 160,000 houses currently under construction under the scheme, 100,000 have already been completed, with families moving into their own homes in less than a year. She termed the progress a significant achievement in Punjab’s social welfare and housing sector. The Pakistan Pavilion at the World Urban Forum in Baku will highlight Punjab’s housing initiative as a case study in sustainable and inclusive urban planning, showcasing efforts aimed at providing affordable housing solutions to underprivileged segments of society.
During the visit, the chief minister is also scheduled to meet Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev. The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation in urban development, climate resilience, tourism, and investment opportunities between Punjab and Azerbaijan.
The Pakistan Pavilion, featuring displays on the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” programme, is being prepared at the Baku Olympic Pavilion, where highlights of Punjab’s housing initiative will be showcased to international delegates attending the forum.
