On the sidelines of WUF12, Cairo Governor Ibrahim Saber held a meeting with Michael Koh, Deputy Executive Director of the Centre for Livable Cities (CLC) in Singapore.
The governor emphasized that the forum serves as a platform for cities worldwide to share their expertise in urban development.
Discussions highlighted Cairo's progress in tackling informal settlements, a persistent issue that the government has successfully addressed.
He noted the substantial effect of relocating nearly 500,000 residents to modern, fully equipped housing units in newly established communities.
According to the governor, these initiatives have significantly enhanced the quality of life for the residents.
Saber mentioned that collaboration with civil society organizations is ongoing to promote cultural awareness among citizens transitioning to these new communities.
The governor reiterated Cairo's dedication to increasing green spaces, referencing the recent renovation of Andalus Park as part of a larger governmental effort to expand green areas throughout the capital.
In turn, Michael Koh commended Cairo's notable achievements in urban development, particularly in public transportation systems such as the metro and monorail, positioning Cairo as a leading city in the Arab world and the Middle East.
He further pointed out the common challenges faced by Cairo and Singapore, especially regarding urban housing, and highlighted Singapore’s comprehensive social housing approach to informal settlement solutions as a model for collaborative exchange.
At the end of their meeting, Koh extended an invitation to Saber to attend the 9th Mayors Forum for the Global Cities Network, scheduled for June 2-4, 2025, as well as the Global Cities Network Meeting in June 2026.