The second biennial World Cities Summit (WCS) has opened in Singapore, with Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean formally launching the programme.
The event brings experts, professionals and leaders together, and provides a platform for important talks on governance and leadership issues, fostering sustainable and harmonious communities and developing eco-friendly and sustainable cities.
A series of Expert Panel Sessions for policy makers, industry experts and government representatives will be held to talk about the challenges and solutions faced by cities worldwide, including urban planning and climate change.
There will also be a Ministerial Dialogue to discuss the vision for a vibrant and liveable city, as well as the priorities of a city or country after the recent economic crisis.
The summit will also include the inaugural WCS Mayors’ Forum to suggest solutions and share best practices to various urban needs faced by cities.
This year’s summit has attracted 45 mayors and governors and 25 ministers from 20 nations, including Australia and China.
The highlight of the event will be the the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize, which will be presented to the Bilbao City Hall in Spain, in recognition of its holistic and integrated approach to urban transformation.