The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) has launched the 2025 National Urban Forum in Cuenca, Ecuador, as part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable urban development. The event, led by Minister Roberto Luque and Deputy Minister Daniel Elmir, brings together national authorities, local governments, academia, international organizations, and the private sector.
During the opening ceremony, Minister Luque emphasized the government’s commitment to comprehensive territorial planning. He stated:
“It is an honor to open the 2025 National Urban Forum from Cuenca, a city that represents the values that inspire this meeting: planning, heritage, sustainable mobility and public space at the service of people.”
He also noted that this forum “is not a protocol act but rather the expression of a national decision: to face our urban future directly and build cities where infrastructure connects, housing dignifies and transport integrates.”
Minister Luque led a panel on national governance and inter-institutional cooperation. The session included Economy and Finance Minister Sariha Moya who said: “Urban sustainability is also built with fiscal responsibility and efficient resource management, where every investment generates well-being and opportunities for Ecuadorian families.”
A subsequent session focused on MIT’s work creating cities for people. In this discussion, Luque and Deputy Minister Elmir addressed progress in sustainable mobility, dignified housing, and integrated urban programs. Elmir remarked: “Our challenge is to transform cities, and we begin this transformation when we think about those who inhabit them.”
International presentations followed. Cristian Salas from Medellín spoke on “From Housing to Sustainable Urban Development,” while David Hidalgo from the University of Guayaquil discussed “Essential Urbanism: Lessons from Curitiba.” Both highlighted innovation, energy efficiency, and participatory planning as key elements in building more resilient communities.
The forum also formalized cooperation between MIT and Project CEELA with the introduction of a new Energy Performance Calculation Tool for buildings aimed at improving energy efficiency in construction. Projects in Muisne, Portoviejo, and Manta—supported by the World Bank—were recognized under the Comprehensive Neighborhood Improvement Program (MIB). The ministry announced $17.4 million for 633 fully subsidized homes and an additional $2.7 million for 81 homes in Esmeraldas.
Participants agreed that ongoing collaboration among all sectors is essential for effective urban transformation centered on equity and sustainability.
Deputy Minister Elmir concluded: “Ecuador cannot wait any longer. This forum is not an endpoint but a starting point. Only by creating cities for people will we build a more equitable, resilient and prosperous country.”
The forum continues on November 12 with further workshops focused on sustainable housing, urban planning, and local governance.
