Kurdistan Region hosts first Urban Planning Conference

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – On Sunday, the Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism held its inaugural urban planning conference. This event marks a significant step towards advancing urban development in line with international standards.

In his opening speech, Sasan Awni, Minister of Municipalities and Tourism in the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), emphasized the importance of this conference.

“This is the first urban planning conference, focusing on an essential sector within the ministry: urban planning. It aligns with the agenda of the ninth government formation in the Kurdistan Region and the vision of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, who has highlighted the importance of mapping and planning for reorganizing cities and towns to create a suitable environment according to international standards,” he highlighted.

Minister Awni also highlighted the broader context of the conference, stating, "This is the fourth conference held by the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism, following the Revenue Restructuring Conference, the Archaeology Conference, and the Post-Coronavirus Tourism Recovery Conference. This urban planning conference is the culmination of five years of dedicated work by experts in the field."

The conference aims to address and shape urban planning issues, particularly focusing on sustainable development.

"The objectives of this conference are to discuss and formulate planning issues and their impact on the development and organization of cities and towns," Awni said. "We emphasize sustainable development and attempt to apply global sustainability concepts."

Moreover, the conference seeks to integrate national culture and identity with contemporary architectural and planning practices.

"Another goal is to focus on integrating national culture and identity with modern architectural schools while preserving historical symbols and characteristics," Awni explained. "This includes introducing high-level architectural design standards for projects and ensuring principles of safety and public health are met."

The conference also aims to raise awareness among citizens and stakeholders about the importance and role of urban planning. "We welcome the recommendations and proposals of experts to enhance urban planning in the Kurdistan Region," Awni concluded.

This conference signifies a pivotal moment for the KRG’s efforts to modernize and sustainably restructure its urban environments, ensuring that future growth is managed effectively and harmoniously with the region's cultural heritage.