Suu talked about the vision and strategy for smart cities alongside the e-government methods of Vietnam, and Hanoi in particular. 

He also expressed the wish to boost international technological collaboration and expertise transfers with localities, enterprises, and partners worldwide. 

In his opening speech, Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam called on countries to promote initiatives and measures so as to foster connectivity among their cities to promptly respond to the challenges arising from urbanisation and climate change. 

He said developing countries are facing some serious challenges, from social instability, environmental degradation, and economic stagnation to epidemic diseases, immigration crises, and the spread of conflicts. 

In particular, the increase in the number of urban areas, the subsequent demands for natural resources, and effects of climate change have posed as barriers to sustainable development. Many cities worldwide are facing common challenges regarding urban and city governance, and are trying to improve resilience capacity and innovation.  

Themed “Liveable & Sustainable Cities: Embracing the Future through Innovation & Collaboration”, the event introduces integrated urban solutions and creates opportunities for new cooperation. 

A total of 160 mayors, governors, policymakers, and local leaders from 125 countries and territories worldwide worked with corporate representatives in sharing lessons in innovation, and solutions to challenges for cities in the future. 

Participants shared the view that harmonious relationships among the people, State, and private sector is key to promoting digital technology to fuel long-term, sustainable, and people-oriented growth. 

The biennial WCS is a global forum to promote and connect innovations in sustainable integrated urban solutions. This year’s event focuses on water, cities, environment, and transportation. 

As part of the event, a large-scale exposition with the participation of 1,100 companies and 25 national stalls displayed new technologies in urban planning and development for cities, including systems for turning wastewater into clean water and converting waste into biofuel.-VNA