Moscow presented the study "Trends in the development of cities in the world" in Guangzhou

At the international Thought Leaders Forum in Guangzhou, China, Moscow presented a new analytical study "Trends in the development of cities around the World." Maria Bagreeva, Deputy Mayor of Moscow and Head of the Department of Economic Policy and Development, spoke about the results of the research at the forum's plenary session.

"The world is rapidly urbanizing: according to the UN, today more than half of the world's population lives in cities, and by 2050 this share may reach 66%. At the same time, cities account for about 80% of global GDP. This makes them not just centers of life, but also engines of economic growth. Moscow is one of the leading megacities and the second largest urban economy in the world. Being among the leaders, we strive not to rest on our laurels, constantly looking for new solutions that make the city's life better and its economy even stronger. Therefore, understanding urban development trends is becoming more important than ever," said Maria Bagreeva.

The presented research is based on the analysis of twenty international studies, scientific publications and articles, market and thematic reviews, databases, official websites of cities and other sources, as well as 40 in—depth interviews with experts from China, USA, Canada, Belgium, Singapore and Russia. The document identifies 14 key trends, grouped into four areas: demographic change, technological development, the climate agenda and changing values. The study also includes 100 cases from 61 cities around the world, demonstrating practical approaches to solving current urban challenges.

According to the deputy mayor, analytical studies conducted by Moscow are self-diagnostic tools that allow Moscow and other cities to evaluate work in certain areas and set vectors for the future.

In relation to Moscow, a new study has shown that the development of the capital is already underway, taking into account the identified trends. For example, in response to demographic challenges, programs are being implemented to promote employment and active longevity, and projects are being implemented to create an inclusive environment. An innovative ecosystem and digitalization of urban processes are developing in the technological sphere. At the same time, all city decisions are made taking into account the climate agenda.
The forum participants highly appreciated the presentation of the research. Nicholas Yu, executive director of the Guangzhou Institute of Urban Innovation, said the study provides an "accurate and in-depth picture of the challenges" facing the world's cities.

"This is not just analytics, but a practical tool that will help build a sustainable urban policy," he said.

During the visit of the delegation of the Moscow City Economic Policy Complex to China, Maria Bagreeva also held a working meeting with Huang Guangli, Deputy Secretary General of the Guangzhou People's Government, who stressed the importance of developing cooperation and exchanging practices between Moscow and Guangzhou. The parties discussed the challenges and priorities of strategic urban development, and also reached an agreement on expanding expert and practical cooperation.

The International Thought Leaders Forum has been held in Guangzhou every two years since 2014. The forum is organized by the Guangzhou Institute of Urban Innovation and the World Association of Major Cities Metropolis.