The Sultanate of Oman, through Muscat Municipality, took part in the ninth World Cities Summit in Singapore, which ended yesterday. The summit focused on 'Liveable and Sustainable Cities: Rejuvenate, Reinvent, Reimagine.' It gathered capital secretaries, mayors, and specialized delegations from around the globe to explore ways to create intelligent, regenerative, and sustainable cities for the next generations. The event provided a valuable opportunity to highlight successful approaches, exchange knowledge, and devise sustainable urban solutions.
The Omani delegation, led by Ahmed bin Mohammed al Hamidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, expressed their views on the participation. He stated that prosperous cities are those that prioritize the well-being of their residents and have the ability to sustain these standards regardless of external circumstances. In order to ensure the prosperity of these cities, it is crucial to enable them to adapt to technological, social, environmental, and other changes. These topics were extensively discussed during the forum sessions, where valuable insights were gained from cities with rich histories and promising futures. The aim is to transform Muscat into a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable city.
Furthermore, the forum highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors in building the cities of the future. Both sectors must collaborate to achieve this common goal. Muscat Municipality urges everyone to work together in making Muscat and all Omani cities smart, resilient, and regenerative.
The forum encompassed a range of activities, including the Mayor's Forum, a special symposium for young leaders, the "Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize" award ceremony, and an accompanying exhibition. Key topics addressed during the event included humanizing cities, regenerative cities, smart cities, sustainable financing of cities, and future cities.
The World Cities Summit, established in 2008, has evolved into a prominent biennial gathering that focuses on the future of urban areas. Drawing in numerous global cities, the event serves as a platform for showcasing experiences, engaging in discussions, and addressing the challenges cities encounter in adapting to rapid changes on multiple fronts.
