Ahram Online: As the UN Undersecretary-General and Associate Administrator of UNDP, how do you see the role of the World Urban Forum (WUF) in shaping global urban development strategies, particularly in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Haoliang Xu: The WUF is a vital opportunity to gather the international community and focus on SDG 11, the urbanization goal. At COP 28 last year, only 17 percent of the SDGs were considered on track. UN-Habitat's progress report on SDG 11 showed that most targets are off track, highlighting significant challenges in achieving sustainable urbanization.

The WUF allows member states, local governments, development financing institutions, civil society organizations, and the UN to come together and explore solutions to these challenges. It is an opportunity to exchange knowledge, experiences, and ideas and to re-commit to these goals despite the difficulties ahead.

With only six years left to 2030, SDG progress has been slower than expected. The WUF serves as a watershed moment for the global community to reflect on where we are, identify gaps, and re-commit to addressing urban challenges.

AO: In your view, what are the most pressing challenges that cities worldwide face in achieving sustainable and inclusive urban development, and how can international collaboration address these challenges?

HX: Urbanization is continuing at a rapid pace. Currently, 56 percent of the world’s population lives in cities, projected to grow to 70 percent by 2050. In Africa alone, 600 million people will move to cities. Are we ready for this?

Sustainable urbanization requires not just housing but secure, affordable housing, transportation, public services, safety, green spaces, and good governance. We are delivering these for less than 56 percent of the population, and the challenge grows as urbanization accelerates. Today, 1.1 billion people live in slums or informal settlements, mainly in Asia and Africa. Even in developed countries, 318 million people are homeless.

Climate change adds another layer of complexity. The rising sea level by 2050 could affect 800 million people living in coastal areas. Cities must contend with the risks of flooding, storm surges, and other climate-related disasters.

Inequality is also a significant challenge. Many cities struggle with insufficient infrastructure, limited financing, and gaps in governance. Jobs for youth, inequality, and climate-related challenges are urgent areas where we need fast progress. International collaboration can bring together resources, knowledge, and innovative solutions to address these issues.

AO: Could you please tell us more about the pipeline collaboration with the Egyptian government?

HX: UNDP has worked with the Egyptian government for nearly 60 years, supporting development across various sectors. The government plays a leadership role in Egypt’s development, and our role is to help that leadership by providing international knowledge, expertise, and resources. For instance, we can bring successful economic development models from countries like China, Malaysia, and Singapore that may be relevant to Egypt's context.

Egypt faces financial constraints. As a developing middle-income country, it has limited resources and a heavy burden from stabilizing the macroeconomy and repaying debts. UNDP helps mobilize international resources to support Egypt's development, particularly in housing and infrastructure.

We focus on local development and work directly with governorates such as Fayoum, Beni Suef, Luxor, and Aswan. Strengthening local governance and capacity helps the government use local resources more effectively.

AO: How does the UNDP support local development efforts, and what is your view on them?

HX: Egypt’s local development is a priority, with the Ministry of Local Development leading efforts to coordinate various government ministries and resources. The governors are key players in driving development at the local level. Our support focuses on strengthening local leadership and ensuring resources are used effectively. We work in governorates like Fayoum, Beni Suef, Luxor, and Aswan to improve service delivery and local governance.

I’m impressed by the governors’ commitment, and we’re focused on helping them leverage local resources to achieve development goals.

AO: How do you perceive the initiatives launched by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi during the forum’s first day?

HX: El-Sisi launched two important initiatives: the National Smart Cities Strategy and the National Green Urbanization Strategy. These initiatives are crucial for addressing Egypt’s urban challenges.

Smart cities use data and technology to manage urban spaces more effectively. By utilizing information and offering digital services, they can improve decision-making and enhance citizens' quality of life. In Egypt, about 44 government services are already available online.

The Green Urbanization Strategy is equally important. It focuses on sustainable, climate-resilient cities. While technology is key, nature-based solutions, such as green spaces, and renewable energy, like solar power, also play a critical role. These initiatives can significantly improve the urban environment, addressing environmental and social challenges.

The digital and green transitions are essential for Egypt’s future, and the government’s focus on these areas is wise.

AO: How can Egypt utilize its resources for comprehensive, robust, and sustainable urban development?

HX: The green transition presents a huge opportunity for Egypt. Improving energy efficiency in buildings, both public and private, can significantly reduce energy consumption and create jobs in energy-efficiency industries. Solar power is another key opportunity. With Egypt’s abundant sunlight, solar energy can play a major role in the country’s energy system, creating green jobs and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Another critical area is the youth population. Egypt has a growing number of young people, and focusing on their education, skills development, and entrepreneurship is vital for sustainable growth. The private sector accounts for 90 percent of Egypt’s economy, and young people need entrepreneurial skills to succeed.

To foster innovation, young people need support in education, business incubation, and targeted financing. They must also be free to experiment and fail, as innovation often involves trial and error. Governments worldwide have created ecosystems to support young entrepreneurs, and Egypt can benefit from a similar approach, focusing on policy frameworks, governance, and market development.

The green transition and youth empowerment are key opportunities for Egypt’s sustainable development.

AO: What are your views on Egypt’s hosting of the 12th round of the World Urban Forum?

HX: Egypt’s decision to host the 12th World Urban Forum shows its commitment to addressing urban challenges. Hosting such a global event requires significant resources, and it demonstrates the government’s responsibility and leadership. Not only does the government host the event, but it is also actively engaged in the discussions, showcasing its commitment to learning from others and applying global best practices.

It also indicates that Egypt is open to hearing from other countries and regions, considering how lessons learned globally can be applied locally. This openness to international collaboration strengthens Egypt’s position as a leader in urban development.

The Egyptian government's presence at the event was a strong signal of its commitment to addressing urban housing and related challenges. Egypt’s hosting of the WUF provides a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and showcase the country’s progress in tackling urban issues.