Erbil prioritizes urban planning, climate initiatives: Erbil Governor

The green belt project is highlighted as an essential initiative that will not only protect the lives of citizens but also combat climate change.

Erbil's Governor Omed Khoshnaw during the Urban Planning Conference. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)
Erbil's Governor Omed Khoshnaw during the Urban Planning Conference. (Photo: Kurdistan 24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – On Sunday, the governor of Erbil Omed Khoshnaw participated in the Urban Planning Conference organized by the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, and emphasized the government's commitment to promoting urban planning and implementing the infrastructure projects as key priorities.

The green belt project is highlighted as an essential initiative that will not only protect the lives of citizens but also combat climate change.

In a recent statement, Governor Khoshnaw elaborated on the government's focus on urban planning development. "The development of infrastructure projects and urban planning are among the government's top priorities, reflecting the views of the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government," he said.

Khoshnaw stressed that attention to urban development is crucial for improving the quality of life in Erbil. He particularly mentioned the preservation and restoration of historical sites like the Erbil Citadel, a key monument and tourist attraction.

"The green belt is another significant infrastructure project in Erbil," Khoshnaw stated. "This initiative will protect citizens' lives, help address climate change, and includes the creation of cycling paths, which are now in the initial planning stages."

In support of these initiatives, the Kurdistan Region's Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism has organized the first conference on urban development planning. Minister Sasan Awni, in his opening remarks, emphasized the conference's multiple objectives, with a focus on urban planning and construction that adheres to international standards.

Read More: Kurdistan Region hosts first Urban Planning Conference

"This is the fourth exclusive conference held by the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, following the Revenue Restructuring Conference, the Archaeology Conference, and the Post-Coronavirus Tourism Recovery Conference," Awni noted.

He added that the current conference represents five years of dedicated effort by experts aimed at advancing infrastructure projects and urban planning. 

The government's comprehensive approach aims to enhance urban living conditions, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable development in Erbil and the broader Kurdistan Region.