Global experts discuss shape of smart cities at AIM Congress

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

A distinguished gathering of global leaders, innovators, and policymakers convened at this year’s AIM Congress, where they explored the transformative role of technology in advancing sustainable and human-centric urban development. The event brought together trailblazers from the public and private sectors, multilateral organizations, and academia, offering strategic insights into building the smart, resilient cities of tomorrow.

The event, convened under the theme Mapping the Future of Global Investment: The New Wave of a Globalized Investment Landscape - Towards a New Balanced World Structure, witnessed broad international participation, reaffirming Abu Dhabi’s position as a central hub for global investment dialogue.

Organised with the support of UAE Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Industry and Advanced

Technology, and the Ministry of Investment, the congress drew significant attention from global

leadership, including Vahagn Garniki Khachaturyan, President of Armenia, and Denis Sassou Nguesso, President of Republic of Congo-Brazzaville.

Addressing the gathering at the event, Haji Zubair Ali, Mayor of Peshawar, a sole delegate from Pakistan extended his gratitude to the esteemed Government of Abu Dhabi and the dedicated organisers of the AIM Congress 2025.

He mentioned that (late) Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, (RIP), Founding Father of the UAE, was instrumental in uniting the seven emirates into a single federation on December 2, 1971. His leadership transformed the nation into a beacon of peace, prosperity, and unparalleled development. Sheikh Zayed’s commitment to utilizing the country’s resources for the betterment of its people laid the foundation for a thriving economy and a harmonious society. May his soul Rest in Peace.

Continuing this legacy, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, has furthered the nation’s progress through strategic investments in education, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability. His dedication to promoting global peace and security, as well as his emphasis on human fraternity, have solidified the UAE’s role as a leader in international diplomacy and development.

“The exemplary leadership demonstrated by both Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed serves as an inspiration to us all, exemplifying how visionary governance can foster national prosperity and global harmony.”He added that Peshawar, the capital city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is the sixth most populous city in Pakistan, with a district population exceeding 7 million as of the 2023 census. Strategically located near the historic Khyber Pass, Peshawar has long served as a vital conduit for trade and cultural exchange between Pakistan and Afghanistan, positioning it as a pivotal player in the broader South and Central Asian economic landscape.

“In recent years, we have embarked on initiatives aimed at revitalizing our urban landscape and economic infrastructure. Our focus has been on enhancing connectivity, improving public services, and creating an environment conducive to business and innovation.”

“The insights and partnerships forged during this conference are invaluable. Learning from the experiences of other cities and sharing our own journey allows us to adopt best practices and innovative solutions tailored to our unique context. The emphasis on sustainable development and inclusive growth resonates deeply with our vision for Peshawar.”

“We are particularly inspired by the discussions on leveraging technology and fostering public-private partnerships to drive economic development. These strategies are integral to our plans to position Peshawar as a competitive player in the regional and global economy.”

“Peshawar is actively pursuing several initiatives aimed at transforming the city into a smart urban centre, focusing on sustainable development, efficient urban management, and enhanced public services.””Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cities Improvement Project (KPCIP): The KPCIP is a comprehensive endeavour targeting the improvement of urban infrastructure and services in Peshawar and other cities within the province. Key components of this project include:

Urban Infrastructure Enhancement: Development of water supply systems, sewerage networks, solid waste management, and green urban spaces to elevate the quality of life for residents.

Institutional Support: Strengthening municipal companies to ensure efficient service delivery and sustainable urban management.

Gender-Inclusive Services: Promoting municipal services that empower women through targeted capacity development and inclusive policies.

Safe City – Smart Peshawar Project: In collaboration with Motorola Solutions, the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa initiated the Safe City – Smart Peshawar Project. This project aims to enhance public safety and urban management through the deployment of advanced surveillance and communication technologies.” Mayor concluded.