On Monday, Sherif El-Sharbin, Egypt’s Minister of Housing, participated in the opening sessions of the 12th World Urban Forum, which is being held in Egypt from November 4 to 8.
El-Sharbin stated, “We are gathering now to launch the meetings of the joint councils, each of which will address a topic of significant importance closely linked to the interests of people and citizens, as well as economic development, particularly in achieving sustainable development goals.”
The Minister highlighted that the joint council on women aims to promote equality and empower women by identifying the barriers that limit their progress. He emphasized the need for actionable results and recommendations at the local levels to help women overcome obstacles. “Providing opportunities for education, vocational and practical training, digital skills, as well as adequate housing, creates a suitable foundation for women’s advancement in society,” he added.
El-Sharbin also noted that the joint council focused on children and youth will discuss the role of young people in sustainable urban development, especially through recommendations from the recent Future Summit. “It is essential that child welfare be a central theme in urban development discussions,” he asserted, emphasizing the connection between the interests of children and youth and sustainable development.
He continued, “We look forward to outlining innovative strategies that young people can adopt to address urban challenges and support positive changes in urban policies. This also includes engaging them in public work initiatives.” Furthermore, the discussions will involve the joint councils for local and regional governments, as well as businesses and institutions, reinforcing the principle that everything starts in the places where we live.
El-Sharbin pointed out that Egypt’s policy, implemented by the Ministry of Housing in collaboration with other state ministries and civil society organizations, including business associations and those focused on women, children, and youth, considers the issues discussed in the joint councils.
He emphasized the importance of new urban communities, which take these topics into account due to their close relationship with citizens’ needs, quality of life, and the provision of decent living conditions, livability, work, education, and attracting more citizens and investment opportunities.
El-Sharbin concluded that the discussions involving various politicians, academics, scientists, researchers, and stakeholders, including local governors and mayors, will result in many outcomes that will be included in the forum’s declaration.
