Moscow will be thrust into the spotlight this August as it gears up to host the International Municipal BRICS Forum. Scheduled for the 27th and 28th, the forum promises a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among cities worldwide, with a particular focus on showcasing Moscow's achievements in urban development.
This emphasis on Moscow's best practices stems from the city's recent accolades. In 2022, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme ranked Moscow first in the world for infrastructure quality and fifth for public service provision. Additionally, 2023 saw Moscow emerge as the leader among BRICS megacities in terms of fostering innovation.
The forum, according to Sergey Cheremin, Head of the Department for External Economic and International Relations of Moscow, is expected to attract a significant audience. Representatives from all Russian regions are anticipated alongside over 200 cities spanning the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia.
Through a program that includes panel discussions, presentations by experts, and dedicated networking opportunities, the forum aims to foster a dialogue at the municipal level. This exchange, as Cheremin highlights, will be instrumental in ensuring the mutual exchange of best practices critical for urban development.
The focus areas for discussion are wide-ranging and encompass some of the most pressing challenges faced by cities today. Municipal infrastructure, social services, and sustainable urban development are all on the agenda. Discussions will delve into topics like tourism, sports, resource management, education, cultural preservation, and healthcare.
The International Municipal BRICS Forum, with its emphasis on knowledge sharing and collaboration, presents a valuable opportunity for Moscow to cement its position as a leader in urban development. The forum also has the potential to foster stronger diplomatic ties and pave the way for mutually beneficial cooperation between cities across the globe.