As global cities face growing challenges related to population growth, climate change, and infrastructure demands, Iran has moved to deepen its urban development partnerships with key BRICS members India, Russia, and China during the 13th BRICS Urbanization Forum held in New Delhi.
The two-day forum, which concluded on June 12, brought together urban development leaders and policymakers from BRICS countries to discuss strategies for building sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities. On the sidelines of the event, Iran’s Deputy Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Gholamreza Kazemian, held separate bilateral meetings with senior officials from India, Russia, and China.
During discussions with India’s Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, both sides explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in urban planning, architecture, and civil engineering. The meeting highlighted the importance of sharing technical expertise and innovative approaches to create resilient urban spaces capable of meeting future challenges.
The Iranian and Indian officials also emphasized the value of knowledge exchange in areas such as smart city development, infrastructure modernization, and sustainable housing projects. Both countries expressed interest in expanding collaboration that could contribute to more efficient and people-centered urban growth.
In a separate meeting, Kazemian met Russia’s Deputy Minister Yuri Mutsenk. The talks focused on implementing the BRICS Ministerial Declaration adopted at the forum and enhancing cooperation in managing large metropolitan areas. Discussions also covered advanced technologies for urban infrastructure, smart city management systems, and methods to improve the efficiency of public services in rapidly growing cities.
Russia and Iran agreed on the importance of closer coordination among BRICS nations in addressing urbanization challenges and promoting innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for citizens.
Kazemian also held talks with China’s Deputy Minister of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Hai-Xiang Xin. The meeting centered on China’s experience in sustainable urban development and its successful implementation of large-scale urban planning projects. Iranian officials shared their perspectives on human-centric architecture and community-focused city development.
Both sides discussed ways to exchange expertise and best practices in areas including green infrastructure, environmentally friendly construction, and long-term urban sustainability.
The 13th BRICS Urbanization Forum concluded with the adoption of a Ministerial Declaration that placed significant emphasis on human-centric urban development. The declaration encourages member nations to pursue policies that balance economic growth with environmental protection, social inclusion, and improved urban living standards.
The forum reaffirmed the growing role of BRICS nations in shaping global urbanization strategies and promoting cooperation on sustainable development goals.
