Libya’s Planning Institute Convenes Meeting to Prepare International Smart Cities Forum

Libya’s Planning Institute reported yesterday that the Minister of Planning, Mohamed Al-Zeidani, discussed the organisational, technical and scientific preparations for the launch of the International Forum for Smart Cities in Libya, during a meeting held on Wednesday. The participation of an Egyptian expert delegation underscores Libya’s aim to foster Arab cooperation in smart city development.

Meeting Participants and Objectives

The meeting included the Director General of the Planning Institute, Mustafa Al-Arqat, and a delegation of experts and specialists from Egypt, headed by Mohamed Al-Khatib. They addressed the general vision of the forum, its strategic objectives and scientific axes, as well as coordination and cooperation mechanisms with national, regional and international institutions. The forum is intended to serve as a platform for exchanging experiences and knowledge and reviewing pioneering experiences and innovative solutions in smart cities and sustainable urban planning.

Linking to UN Sustainable Development Goals

The meeting stressed the importance of linking the forum’s themes to the goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, notably Goal 11 on inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities and communities. It also highlighted Goal 9 on industry, innovation and infrastructure, Goal 13 on climate action, and Goal 17 on strengthening partnerships to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Role of the Planning Institute and Future Plans

Participants discussed ways to benefit from scientific and technical expertise to crystallize an integrated national vision for Libyan cities based on scientific planning, innovation, digital transformation and environmental sustainability, taking into account Libya’s economic, urban and social specificities, addressing urbanisation challenges, improving service efficiency and enhancing cities’ adaptability to future changes. The scientific and technical role of the Planning Institute was emphasized, including identifying the forum’s scientific axes, attracting specialised expertise, expanding cooperation with research and academic institutions, aligning outputs with national development priorities and sustainable development goals, and supporting the transformation of recommendations into implementable, measurable and follow‑up initiatives and projects. Preparations for the forum are part of broader efforts to develop Libya’s urban planning system, promote modern technologies in city management and improve services, and to expand Arab and international cooperation in innovation, digital transformation and sustainable development, supporting the shift toward smarter, sustainable and resilient Libyan cities and contributing to economic, social and environmental development.