Professor Raheel Qamar, Head of Science and Environment Sector at the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), presented the Organization’s strategy for building resilient, sustainable, and smart cities in its Member States during the 3rd Azerbaijan National Urban Forum (NUFA3), held in the cities of Khankendi and Baku on Wednesday, 15 October 2025. His intervention took place during a panel session titled “Interplay Between Mobility, Data, and Spatial Planning: Innovative Urban Solutions.”

In this context, Professor Qamar emphasized that mobility, data, and spatial planning constitute the living system of a city and determine whether it merely survives or thrives. He called for leveraging digital technologies as tools to empower people, protect the environment, and drive inclusive development.

Professor Raheel showcased pioneering initiatives by the Organization in this field, notably the “Digital Twin of Marrakech” project, which employs smart technologies to safeguard and promote cultural heritage, enhance tourism, and support urban planning. He noted the adaptability of similar models in other countries, including those with limited infrastructure, through data-driven approaches.

Furthermore, Professor Raheel outlined the key components of ICESCO’s smart cities agenda, including the development of the “Smart, Sustainable, and Resilient Cities Program in the Islamic World,” the promotion of policy adoption through ministerial conferences, and innovation programs such as startup competitions and living labs. He reaffirmed ICESCO’s goal to support each Member State in establishing at least one resilient smart city by 2030.

The Forum brought together over 400 representatives from public and private institutions across 60 countries, in addition to delegates from international organizations, academic institutes, and civil society organizations.