Participants of the "Inventing the Future" Symposium discussed what cities should become
During the International Symposium "Inventing the Future," a discussion on the case studies "Cities of the Future: Creating Space for Life" was held. The event brought together Russian and foreign urban planning specialists. Its main goal was to discuss what a truly successful city of the coming decades should look like and what measures need to be taken to create such a city.
The Russian side has much to offer its foreign colleagues in this regard. Alexei Yeresko, Deputy Minister of Construction, Housing and Utilities of the Russian Federation, highlighted two domestic innovations that are in high demand globally. The first is creating comfortable living conditions in extremely cold climates, which has been implemented in numerous cities beyond the Arctic Circle. The second is the construction of science cities aimed at maximizing residents' professional self-realization.
"Today, we clearly understand the special role of cities in developing human capital and the new economy. Russia has always sought a unique formula for the city, and we, within the framework of the Ministry of Construction of Russia, continue this work. Together with DOM.RF, we are developing new approaches to building future housing. Key programs are being implemented in the areas of domestic and inbound tourism. We have achieved revolutionary changes under the federal project 'Creating a Comfortable Urban Environment' — we have improved over 30,000 public spaces and more than 40,000 courtyards, with a total program outreach of 132 million people," Alexei Yeresko reported.
Participants also exchanged views on the key qualities that a prosperous and comfortable city of the future should possess.
"The city of the future is an inclusive city that meets the key needs of its residents while adhering to the principles of sustainable development," emphasized Malawian parliament member Ephraim Abel Kayembe.
The discussion participants explored possible pathways to achieve this outcome. James Law, CEO of Cybertecture company from Hong Kong, shared how technological and infrastructural development of cities could lead to a transformation of the entire planet.
"Cities are humanity's greatest invention throughout the history of civilization. At Cybertecture, we believe that cities are our future salvation. They can become completely self-sufficient — producing their own food, generating water, and clean air. If this happens, the entire planet will look like a new, futuristic model of development," noted James Law.
Roya Leyli, Director of City Diplomacy and Member Affairs of the Asian Forum of Mayors from the Iranian city of Ramsar, emphasized the importance of developing large urban centers for the overall well-being of states. In her opinion, it is in cities that the new future will be created, and thus their stable development should be a priority.
"It is essential to create sustainable urban plans that take into account transport development, the creation of green spaces, and community involvement in city life. Connections between urban planners and city residents must be established. Innovations are also crucial, as 'smart technologies' help develop eco-friendly solutions and effectively address the issues facing cities. Additionally, we need to work with politicians who support the sustainability agenda. Another important aspect is education, providing resources and programs aimed at teaching communities sustainable practices," emphasized Roya Leyli.
In turn, the Chief Managing Partner for Urban Development at VEB.RF, Irina Makieva, presented the results of a comprehensive analysis of long-term development plans designed and implemented by cities in Russia. In particular, she highlighted the example of Yakutsk, which is implementing a project to create the country’s IT capital, and Tyumen, which is transforming its traditional "oil and gas" image into that of the capital of creative industries.
"Such high ambitions are not just fantasies. It is important that they translate into concrete projects so that everyone in urban management teams understands what is required of them," summarized Irina Makieva.
The role of creative industries in shaping the new image of cities was also noted.
"Creative industries are an emergency response for small towns and a powerful impetus for creating entirely new settlements — cities of the future. Today, together with leading experts from universities and research centers, and with leaders of the creative economy, we are conducting an experiment, the TENGRI TERRA and 'Mountain Cradle' projects. We are creating a new socio-economic model that connects traditional activities with creative industries. The pilot project will be implemented in the Republic of Altai," noted Marina Abramova, President of the Autonomous Non-Profit Organization "Creative Economy."
The International Symposium "Inventing the Future" is being held from November 4 to 6. Participants include scientists, researchers, futurists, science fiction writers, and representatives from government bodies from 101 countries, including Russia, India, Italy, Iran, China, the UAE, Serbia, the USA, and France. The program features over 60 sessions across four tracks: "Future of Human," "Future of Technology," "Future of Multipolar World," and "Future of Civilizations." The program and event broadcasts are available at the website future.russia.ru.
The International Symposium "Inventing the Future" is the first event of the National Centre RUSSIA, which was established on July 1, 2024, by the order of President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin. The Centre aims to preserve the legacy of the International RUSSIA EXPO and showcase the achievements of the country and its citizens. The work of the Centre involves federal authorities, state companies, corporations, and regions.
