The 13th World Urban Forum opened on Sunday, May 17, in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. The global gathering, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Government of Azerbaijan, will continue until May 23 and is focused on the theme “Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities.” Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiya, Qatar’s Minister of Municipality, said at the forum that Qatar’s experience has shown integrated planning to be the foundation for building more sustainable and resilient cities capable of balancing development, people, and the environment. More than 32,000 participants from nearly 180 countries, including a delegation from Afghanistan, are attending the global forum. Mexico’s Minister of Municipality said that a gradual path should be outlined to ensure that each of the seven components of this human right is reflected in national and local public policies. During the six-day forum, government officials, mayors, international organizations, urban experts, university professors, civil society activists, and private sector representatives are discussing the global housing crisis, sustainable urban development, climate change, smart cities, and ways to build resilient and inclusive cities. A special session on Afghanistan is scheduled for the third day of the forum, focusing on urban challenges, the settlement of displaced people, climate change, urban services, and the reconstruction of cities in Afghanistan. Comment this post
May 17, 2026 · via tolonews.com
Bidar: An industrial hub is being established in Zaheerabad, Telangana, which is only 30 km away from Bidar, due to which, employment opportunities are expected to open up for the locals of Bidar. Apart from this, many sectors such as real estate, tourism, transport etc. have received a boost in Bidar, due to which the economic development has increased. Bidar has also received hope from Zaheerabad Industrial Smart City, for which the foundation stone was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the expectation of attracting Rs 10,000 crore investment and creating 1.70 lakh jobs by 2029. Automobile, food processing, heavy machinery and electrical equipment industries will rise, and the youth of the district will get employment near the city. Zaheerabad Industrial Area is being developed under the Hyderabad-Nagpur Industrial Corridor (HNIC) as part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme. The project, in the first phase out of a total of 12,000 acres, which will be developed at a cost of Rs 2,350 crore on 3,245 acres, is adjacent to NH-65. The industrial area under Smart Integrated Industrial Township will have advanced and sustainable infrastructure, and industrial city is being built keeping future industrial development in mind. In the 80s, Bidar district was declared as a non-industrial district. There are no large -scale industries here to generate employment. Thus, young graduates head to cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad for jobs. Now, as an industrial hub is being constructed in the vicinity, it will benefit the youth of the district.
May 17, 2026 · via timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Libya’s Tripoli based Minister of Housing and Reconstruction, Essam Al-Tamouni, stressed that his government’s slogan “Return to Life” represents the grand national strategy that places the National Housing Project at the top of its priorities. This project plans to complete and construct 150,000 housing units aimed at ensuring social stability for families and youth in Libya. The minister is participating in the work of the 13th edition of the World Urban Forum, to be hosted in the Azerbaijani capital, Baku, from the 17 to the 22 of May 2026. The Minister also revealed the features of the upcoming five-year plan, which adopts the transformation towards smart cities managed by science and surrounded by safety. Referring to the Hurricane Daniel destroyed city of Derna, he said this ordeal highlighted the authentic metal of Libyans and their cohesion from all regions, which made social harmony the main pillar of reconstruction. The Minister issued an open call to the world towards responsible investment based on partnership between the public and private sectors to build sustainable cities, stressing that the true measure of urbanization is to raise the value of human beings and make stable housing and decent living an authentic right and a stable approach. The forum, which is sponsored by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), is the world’s premier international platform to discuss urban challenges and formulate solutions for inclusive sustainable urban development around the world.
May 17, 2026 · via libyaherald.com
Outdoor advertising is moving beyond static visuals and fixed schedules into a responsive, data-driven ecosystem, writes Eleanor Hecks, Managing Editor at Designerly Magazine. With the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT), various out-of-home (OOH) advertising infrastructures can now respond dynamically to real-world conditions. Amid changing advertising needs, this shift transforms outdoor media into an adaptive communication channel that delivers more precise and measurable performance. How IoT Works in outdoor advertising IoT in outdoor advertising refers to a connected network of sensors, cameras, digital displays and Cloud-based systems that collect and process real-time data from physical environments. Using sensors embedded into advertising infrastructures, the systems continuously gather inputs, including location data and weather conditions, as well as traffic density and pedestrian flow. With this data, advertisers can dynamically adjust creative content, ensuring messages remain relevant to context, timing and demographics. In 2025, total advertising spend in the UK rose by 6.4% year-on-year to reach £46.7 billion, with OOH recording a 2.3% growth over the same period. These statistics reflect a growing demand for OOH, and with the integration of IoT, the numbers may continue to rise. Benefits of IoT for outdoor advertising As digital technology continues to influence how brands connect with their audiences, IoT plays a dominant role in reshaping outdoor advertising, making it a more intelligent and effective platform responsive to real-world conditions. Instead of relying on fixed campaigns, advertisers can now adjust messaging in real time based on live data. Key benefits of IoT include: ● Higher targeting accuracy through live audience insights. ● Dynamic content that responds to weather, time and traffic. ● Stronger engagement through context-aware messaging. ● Improved performance tracking using detailed analytics. Real World Applications OOH advertising engages around 90% of urban consumers each week, highlighting its extensive audience coverage. With various types
May 17, 2026 · via iotinsider.com
photo: Report Malaysia is looking to deepen cooperation with Azerbaijan in the development of “smart cities” and “smart villages,” signaling growing international interest in the country’s ambitious urban transformation projects. Speaking on the sidelines of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Malaysian Minister of Housing and Local Government and current president of the UN-Habitat Assembly, Nga Kor Ming, said Kuala Lumpur sees strong potential for collaboration with Azerbaijan in building intelligent and sustainable regions, The Caspian Post reports via Report. “We are encouraged and excited to see Azerbaijan moving in this direction, and we would certainly like to be part of this process,” the minister said. Nga Kor Ming said that smart cities represent the future, especially as countries move toward carbon-neutral economies. “A smart city is exactly the solution that is needed,” he noted, adding that Malaysia aims to become an AI-driven nation by 2035. The minister stressed that the door remains open for long-term cooperation between the two friendly nations in areas tied to digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable urban planning. He also welcomed strategic partnerships that can help create more resilient and sustainable cities, in line with this year’s central theme at WUF13. Nga Kor Ming praised Azerbaijan’s ongoing efforts to improve living standards and expand access to quality housing, expressing hope that the country will continue serving as a model for sustainable development. “We hope Azerbaijan will continue to set an example in improving people’s well-being and building more dignified and affordable housing so that everyone can truly call it home and turn their dreams into reality,” he added. Share on social media
May 17, 2026 · via caspianpost.com
Minister: Malaysia seeks partnership with Azerbaijan on smart cities push Malaysia has expressed interest in partnering with Azerbaijan on smart cities and smart villages initiatives, Nga Kor Ming, Malaysia’s Minister of Housing and Local Government and current President of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), told Report on the sidelines of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku. “We see significant potential for cooperation with Azerbaijan in this area, including in the development of smart regions. We are encouraged and pleased to see Azerbaijan embarking on this path, and we would certainly like to be part of this process. The development of smart cities is a step forward, especially given our commitment to a carbon-neutral economy. A smart city is precisely the solution we need. Malaysia, for its part, aims to become an AI nation by 2035. Therefore, the space for partnership between Azerbaijan and Malaysia, as friendly countries, always remains open to both sides,” the minister emphasized. As Nga Kor Ming stated, the Malaysian side welcomes any strategic interaction that can truly contribute to the development of sustainable and resilient cities in line with the key theme of this year's World Urban Forum. “In this regard, we hope that Azerbaijan will continue to lead by example in improving the well-being of its population and building more decent and affordable housing so that everyone can call it their home and make their dreams come true,” he noted. By Jeyhun Aghazada
May 17, 2026 · via caliber.az
WUF13 kicks off in Azerbaijan The opening ceremony of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) is taking place in Baku today, Trend reports. The main events of the forum will be organized at the Baku Olympic Stadium. Running until May 22, WUF13 is jointly organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the Government of Azerbaijan. Considered one of the world's most prestigious urbanization platforms, the forum will transform Baku into the global hub for discussions on urban planning and sustainable development. More than 40,000 participants from 182 countries have registered for the event, making it one of the highest turnout figures in WUF history. Extensive discussions during the forum will center on the sustainable development of cities, the impact of climate change on urban environments, modern city management, digital solutions, accessible housing, and ecological approaches. WUF13 serves as a vital international platform, bringing together government officials, representatives of international organizations, mayors, experts, and civil society advocates. Azerbaijan's reconstruction projects in its liberated territories will also be presented at the event. The "smart city" and "smart village" concepts, as well as the ongoing initiatives toward establishing a "green energy zone" in Karabakh and East Zangezur, are expected to draw particular interest from international participants. Hosting WUF13 in Baku once again demonstrates Azerbaijan's capacity to successfully host major international events and highlights the country's active role in global cooperation initiatives. The forum is also considered significant for showcasing Azerbaijan's experience in sustainable development and modern urban planning to an international audience. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided throughout the event in the official UN languages—Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish—as well as in Azerbaijani and Turkish. Notably, for the first time in the history of the World Urban Forum, the program includes a Leaders' Summit, marking
May 17, 2026 · via qazinform.com
What World Urban Forum in Baku means for future of climate-resilient cities In an era defined by rapid urbanization, climate vulnerability, and the pressing need for post-conflict regeneration, the global community frequently looks for practical, scalable models of resilience. The traditional paradigms of urban planning often fail to keep pace with the multifaceted challenges of the twenty-first century. However, a transformative shift is currently underway in the South Caucasus. As President Ilham Aliyev recently highlighted during his meeting with Anaclaudia Rossbach, the Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), Azerbaijan’s innovative urban planning practices, particularly the large-scale restoration and reconstruction efforts in its liberated territories, have evolved from a domestic necessity into an exemplary international benchmark. This transformation underscores a profound truth: true urban resilience is not merely about rebuilding physical structures, but about pioneering systemic, innovative frameworks that seamlessly merge sustainable development with global climate action. The thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) to be hosted today in Baku represents a watershed moment for international urban policy. Coming on the heels of the successfully organized COP29, Azerbaijan’s stewardship of WUF13 signifies a deliberate and strategic effort to bridge two traditionally distinct global agendas: climate change mitigation and sustainable urbanization. Historically, environmental architecture and municipal engineering operated in institutional silos. By creating a strategic continuum between COP and WUF, Azerbaijan is actively reshaping the global discourse, demonstrating that the commitments made in environmental summits must be physically and structurally manifested in the cities of tomorrow. This deliberate alignment ensures that green energy transitions, smart-city technologies, and climate adaptation strategies are embedded directly into the fabric of urban environments, establishing a holistic blueprint for future generations. The international confidence reposed in Azerbaijan by the United Nations is neither accidental nor merely diplomatic. UN-Habitat’s high assessment of
May 17, 2026 · via azernews.az
last updated: 10:00:43 AM IST Sano International Cricket Ground, Sano 16 ov - Ferdinando Banunaek W1101115 ov - Gede Arta 6W1lb00014 ov - Sudhakar Jegannathan 11W11wd1013 ov - Gede Arta 116W1212 ov - Kavin Chaddha 12610411 ov - Ketut Artawan 11124210 ov - Kavin Chaddha 1112169 ov - Ketut Artawan 0001lb208 ov - Kavin Chaddha 00011W7 ov - Ketut Artawan 2211116 ov - Sudhakar Jegannathan 02lb00025 ov - Gede Arta 1046614 ov - Sudhakar Jegannathan 1420013 ov - Ferdinando Banunaek 0144002 ov - Sudhakar Jegannathan 000W001 ov - Ferdinando Banunaek 411402Thomas Parima 1.4 ovHayden Dickson 8 ovMa'ara Ave 12.4 ovAue Parima 13.3 ovCory Dickson 14.2 ovOscar Taylor 15.1 ov16 ov - Hayden Dickson 0202W015 ov - Quin Stephens 10101114 ov - Cory Dickson 12011213 ov - Aue Parima 1110W112 ov - Ma'ara Ave 11011111 ov - Cory Dickson W00W1wd1110 ov - Aue Parima 0401219 ov - Quin Stephens 0110108 ov - Ma'ara Ave 2010017 ov - Cory Dickson 1101126 ov - Quin Stephens 01012W5 ov - Hayden Dickson 0040004 ov - Jared Tutty 041wd41003 ov - Hayden Dickson 0010022 ov - Jared Tutty 1wd40W0011 ov - Hayden Dickson 1lb00101Sudhakar Jegannathan 1.3 ovSampath Kharvi 6 ovGede Priandana 10.1 ovDanilson Hawoe 10.4 ovDharma Kesuma 12.5 ovKavin Chaddha 15.5 ov
May 17, 2026 · via timesofindia.indiatimes.com
Green energy, LNG, offshore wind, maritime logistics, and high-tech industries are poised to become the new "growth engines" for Vietnam’s largest metropolis. This vision was the focal point of the seminar "Ho Chi Minh City: Resilience from Industry - Energy - High-Tech Services," held on May 14 in Hanoi. During the event, experts argued that energy should no longer be viewed merely as infrastructure or power supply, but as the foundational platform for restructuring the city's growth model in the coming period. According to Director of the Institute for Policy Management and Development Strategy, Ms. Le Nguyen Thien Nga, the southern city must move beyond traditional mindsets. “Energy development must be integrated into a holistic ecosystem encompassing green energy, digital energy, artificial intelligence, and high-tech industries across the entire Southeast region,” said Ms. Nga. She emphasized that to go the distance and see Vietnamese enterprises enter the Fortune Global 500, the government must provide experimental mechanisms—or "sandboxes"—large enough for leading domestic firms to take the lead. Ms. Nga further noted that the primary bottleneck is not necessarily a lack of policy mechanisms, but rather the absence of a robust “national governance architecture” capable of connecting, analyzing, and operating data for policy planning. Without this foundation, efforts toward digital transformation, smart cities, or integrated industrial-energy ecosystems will struggle to achieve real effectiveness. Dr. Du Van Toan, an expert in marine and island environments, highlighted that HCM City’s greatest competitive advantage currently lies in the Can Gio – Con Dao maritime economic space, supported by a long-established network of seaports, logistics, and oil and gas infrastructure. This provides more than just a gateway for shipping; it offers the potential to create a regional "hub" for industrial, energy, and maritime technical services. Specifically, the offshore wind value chain extends far beyond power generation,
May 17, 2026 · via en.vneconomy.vn
China's Digital Silk Road in Iraq and the Middle East: How AI, smart cities, and 5G reshaping the region By Halo Hassan Saeed* While most international discussions surrounding China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) focus on railways, highways, ports, oil pipelines, and maritime trade routes, another strategic dimension is quietly reshaping global politics and economic connectivity: the Digital Silk Road. The Digital Silk Road represents the technological and digital component of China's broader global strategy. Through investments in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, smart cities, fiber-optic networks, 5G telecommunications, digital finance, e-commerce systems, and surveillance technologies, China is increasingly positioning itself as one of the leading technological powers influencing the Middle East. For countries across the Middle East, digital transformation has become a strategic necessity rather than a luxury. Governments in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Egypt, Qatar, and other regional states are investing heavily in smart infrastructure, digital governance, artificial intelligence, renewable energy management, and technology-based economic diversification. As a result, China's Digital Silk Road is emerging as one of the most influential geopolitical and economic projects shaping the future of the Middle East. The Rise of the Digital Silk Road The concept of the Digital Silk Road was officially introduced by China in 2015 as part of the Belt and Road Initiative. While the original Silk Road connected civilizations through trade caravans and maritime commerce, the modern Digital Silk Road connects countries through data, information networks, digital infrastructure, and technological cooperation. Chinese policymakers argue that digital infrastructure is now as important as traditional infrastructure such as roads, railways, and ports. In the twenty-first century, economic competitiveness increasingly depends on internet connectivity, artificial intelligence, digital trade, cybersecurity, and technological innovation. The Digital Silk Road focuses on several major sectors: 5G telecommunications, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, smart-city systems, e-commerce,
May 16, 2026 · via shafaq.com
Fluor, Shell & OVO: This Week's Top Five Energy Stories 1. Why Fluor is Building the US's First New Refinery Since 1977 Fluor Corporation has been awarded the contract to engineer and design a large-scale refining facility in Texas, the first in the US in half a century The energy crisis engendered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has left governments globally considering their energy security. In many cases, this period of reflection has led to the conclusion that countries need to rely less on global trading partners when it comes to fuel, due to the current instability of the oil and gas market. While the US's military involvement in the Middle East may have negatively impacted its own energy economy in the short term, US President Donald Trump has made repeatedly clear his desire to move away from a globalised energy sector. Since Trump was inaugurated for a second time in January 2025, he has spoken time and again about increasing US oil drilling. While some progress has been made against this goal, refining remains something of a problem for Trump's ambition for the US to become self-sufficient. The US is one of the world's most prolific refiners of oil, yet it still relies somewhat on importing fuel due to bottlenecks at its 130 refineries. Part of this is down to the fact that the country has not built a new oil refinery in almost 50 years. This, however, is about to change 2. Why is Shell Selling All its Service Stations in France? Shell has made plans to sell its French petrol stations as the firm’s strategy shifts, raising questions over retail margins and its post-war priorities Shell is preparing to sell its entire network of petrol stations in France, according to a report from French
May 16, 2026 · via energydigital.com
Hanoi aims to become a green, smart and modern city, as well as an important regional center for finance, commerce and innovation with gross regional domestic product (GRDP) expected to reach approximately $200 billion by 2035 as part of its 100-year master plan which has been approved by the municipal People’s Committee. Under the master plan, the city targets per capita GRDP exceeding $18,800 by that year. Then by 2045, the capital aspires to become one of the Asia-Pacific’s leading innovation hubs, before evolving into a global city with life quality and happiness among the world’s highest by 2065. One of the plan’s most notable features is its emphasis on developing cultural industries and tourism into key economic sectors. Hanoi aims for cultural industries to contribute around 10% of GRDP by 2035, 12% by 2045 and 15–20% by 2065. The capital’s population is projected to reach between 14–15 million by 2035, rising to 15–16 million by 2045 and 17–19 million by 2065, with the long-term figure capped at no more than 20 million. The planning area spans around 3,359.84 sq.km. Hanoi borders Thai Nguyen province to the north, Phu Tho province to the north, the west and the north-west; Ninh Binh to the south and south-west; and Bac Ninh and Hung Yen to the east.
May 16, 2026 · via en.vneconomy.vn
The Haryana government has extended the tenure of Karnal Smart City Limited and its project management consultancy till March 31, 2027, to ensure timely completion of ongoing works and smooth transfer of assets to the concerned departments. The extension also applies to Faridabad Smart City Limited, which has been granted a similar timeline. The decision was taken during a meeting of the State-Level High-Powered Steering Committee (SLHPSC) held recently and chaired by Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, which reviewed the progress of Smart City Mission projects in Karnal and Faridabad. Officials said the extension aligns with directions from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, aimed at ensuring efficient execution of remaining projects and continued delivery of urban infrastructure benefits to citizens. During the review, Rastogi assessed the physical and financial progress of ongoing works and appreciated the pace of implementation in both cities, noting that the Smart City Mission has significantly improved urban infrastructure, civic amenities and quality of life through technology-driven development. Ashok Kumar Meena informed the committee that Faridabad Smart City Limited has undertaken 46 projects worth ₹916.83 crore, of which 32 have been completed. Karnal Smart City Limited, meanwhile, has taken up 122 projects worth ₹930 crore, with 86 already completed and several others in advanced stages of execution. This site is best viewed with a resolution of 1024x768 (or higher) and supports Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 (or higher) Copyright © 2016-2026
May 16, 2026 · via newsonprojects.com
Related Topics Articles View All Hover to load posts Articles View All Hover to load posts Articles View All Hover to load posts Articles View All Hover to load posts Articles View All Hover to load posts Articles View All Hover to load posts Articles View All Hover to load posts Resource Hubs Featured Resources Link to Best Practices for Deploying and Scaling Industrial AI Best Practices for Deploying and Scaling Industrial AI Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industrial operations, helping organizations optimize workflows, reduce downtime, and enhance productivity. Different industry verticals leverage AI in unique ways. Link to The Center for Adaptive Edge Intelligence The Center for Adaptive Edge Intelligence Adaptive edge intelligence brings real-time decision-making to the point of data creation, whether from sensors, machines, or cameras. Link to The Value of Vehicle Electrification The Value of Vehicle Electrification Electric vehicles (EVs) present automakers with many design, engineering, and manufactu ring challenges. Link to Accelerating Manufacturing Digital Transformation with Industrial Connectivity and IoT Accelerating Manufacturing Digital Transformation with Industrial Connectivity and IoT Digital transformation is empowering industrial organizations to deliver sustainable innovation, disruption-proof products and services, and continuous operational improvement. Link to Smart Manufacturing for Automotive Smart Manufacturing for Automotive Leading a transportation revolution in autonomous, electric, shared mobility and connectivity with the next generation of design and development tools. Link to Center for Data Pipeline Automation Center for Data Pipeline Automation As businesses become data-driven and rely more heavily on analytics to operate, getting high-quality, trusted data to the right data user at the right time is essential. Link to Center for Automated Integration Center for Automated Integration The goal of automated integration is to enable applications and systems that were built separately to easily share data and work together, resulting in new capabilities and efficiencies that
May 16, 2026 · via rtinsights.com
In recent years, Prague has been gradually transforming its public spaces, and with that, the question of what role urban greenery should play in them has resurfaced. In addition to preliminary work on Charles Square, new trees are also returning to Wenceslas Square, where new rows of trees have already been planted in the lower part, with further modifications planned. According to arborist David Hora, however, simply planting trees isn’t enough. “What’s crucial is what’s underground,” he says. We spoke with him about why trees, shrubs, and plants in cities often struggle, how Prague approaches tree care, and what will determine whether parks will still be thriving decades from now. Charles Square is being revitalized, and Wenceslas Square is also undergoing changes, with new tree-lined avenues returning there. How does Prague generally approach urban greenery today? A shift has been visible in recent years. The city no longer views greenery merely as an aesthetic accessory, but increasingly as part of the infrastructure that influences the climate, quality of life, and the functioning of public space. It’s good that projects are emerging where trees are returning to places that were previously mainly paved or dominated by traffic. At the same time, however, planting alone is not enough. What matters most is whether the tree is given a chance to thrive in the long term. What do you see as the biggest shortcomings in urban tree care? We often focus on what is visible above ground—that is, how many trees we plant or how a park looks after renovation. But what is not visible is often much more important. In the city, common problems include insufficient root space, poorly designed surfaces, conflicts with utility lines, or inadequate post-planting care. The tree may stand in place, but in the long term, it lacks
May 16, 2026 · via praha.camp
The Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC) under the Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with Arup Ventures (UK), on May 15 organized the forum “Innovation in the Development of Smart Cities and Smart Factories in Vietnam.” Amid intensifying global competition increasingly driven by capabilities in data governance, digital infrastructure, and core technologies, models of smart cities and smart factories are emerging as critical foundations for building national competitiveness in the new era. Speaking at the forum, Mr. Vo Xuan Hoai, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC), emphasized that smart cities and smart factories are no longer experimental models, but are becoming new growth drivers of the digital and green economy. In particular, in the new phase of development, a country’s competitiveness is no longer determined solely by market size or natural resources, but increasingly depends on its ability to integrate data, connect infrastructure, and master core technologies. Currently, Vietnam is having a major opportunity for breakthrough growth, as many localities have begun implementing next-generation urban planning, while domestic technology and industrial enterprises are gradually developing smart manufacturing complexes applying artificial intelligence (AI), digital twins, and advanced automation. “Therefore, developing ‘Make in Vietnam’ smart city and smart factory platforms will not only enhance governance capacity and labor productivity, but also lay the foundation for Vietnam to achieve double-digit growth, strengthen technological self-reliance, and build competitive strategic industries,” Mr. Hoai affirmed. Besides, Dr. Dao Thi Nhu, representative of the Urban Development Agency under the Ministry of Construction, shared orientations for building policy frameworks and mechanisms to promote smart urban development in a synchronized manner, ensuring data connectivity and placing people at the center. Notably, according to Dr. Nhu, there is an urgent need to transform urban planning thinking, from traditional management models to digital governance models based on real-time data.
May 16, 2026 · via en.vneconomy.vn
San Antonio names Marshall Ramsey as CIO 15 May 2026 by Jonathan Andrews The City of San Antonio has appointed Marshall Ramsey as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO), with outgoing CIO Craig Hopkins framing the leadership transition as one rooted in stewardship, teamwork and public service. Announcing his arrival in a LinkedIn post, Ramsey said he was honoured to join the city and described the opportunity as deeply personal. “As a sixth-generation Texan, this opportunity carries a personal connection–it’s a chance to serve a city that feels like home,” he said. Ramsey added that his focus would be on “listen[ing], learn[ing], and help[ing] move the mission forward together”, while emphasising that technology should ultimately support residents, city employees and trust in government. “Technology matters, but only in how it helps us better serve residents, support employees, strengthen operations, and build trust with the community,” he said. The appointment follows the departure of Hopkins, who has led San Antonio’s technology and smart city agenda since 2017. In his own LinkedIn post reflecting on the handover, Hopkins compared the transition to passing control of a Coast Guard rescue vessel to a new coxswain. “The sign on the CIO office was changed today,” he wrote. “But the Coast Guard teaches you something important: no one holds the helm forever.” Hopkins said leadership was not about possession or permanence, but about stewardship, service, and the responsibility to care for something larger. He added: “The title, the office, the parking spot, the porcelain coffee cup, those things belong to the role, not the person. We are only temporary stewards of the role.” During Hopkins’ tenure, San Antonio became known for its collaborative governance approach to smart city delivery and cross-agency cooperation. In 2019, the city introduced an enterprise agreement designed to streamline data sharing
May 15, 2026 · via cities-today.com
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May 15, 2026 · via youtube.com
Dive Brief: - California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s revised state budget proposal for fiscal 2026-2027 includes $500 million for the state’s Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention fund, half of what prior rounds of funding included – but more than the zero new dollars budgeted in the current fiscal year. - The state is also requiring “more accountability” from cities and counties seeking HHAP funding, according to a California Department of Housing and Community Development press release. Localities must demonstrate how state funding would reduce unsheltered homelessness, address encampments and adopt policies to increase local housing supply, the release states. - Local government leaders rely heavily on HHAP funding, and proposed cuts will force cities to close shelter beds and cut homelessness prevention programs, according to League of California Cities Executive Director and CEO Carolyn Coleman. “Cities need an ongoing funding commitment to reduce the homelessness crisis, not a decrease in funding,” Coleman said in a news release. Dive Insight: California, the most populous U.S. state, also has the largest unhoused population in the nation. Last year the state reported a 9% reduction in unsheltered homelessness and its largest drop in homelessness in 15 years, a press release from Newsom’s office states. That reduction coincided with a more aggressive state effort to clear homeless encampments, a policy Newsom has pressured local governments to adopt as well. California mayors have characterized HHAP funds as a critical piece of the progress made in reducing unsheltered homelessness in their cities and counties. “This progress is fragile without sustained commitment from the State,” San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said in a news release about Newsom’s May 14 revised budget. “When funding and partnership fall short, cities are forced to scale back programs that are working, putting hard-earned progress on reducing homelessness at risk across California.” The
May 15, 2026 · via smartcitiesdive.com