The digital transformation is in full swing, and the big cities of the world are the laboratories where transformative technological solutions for tomorrow’s cities are developed – solutions designed to boost economic growth, enhance resource efficiency, and improve quality of life and democratic participation for people in our society. For the government of Berlin, this is an exciting opportunity to develop Germany’s capital into a leading smart city in Europe – a city which invests in integrated technologies so that it can stay at the front of the digital curve and thereby improve people’s quality of life.
Berlin is a dynamic urban environment in which stakeholders from business, science and government work together to develop new ideas and products for tomorrow’s cities. As such, it is the perfect setting for a show like Metropolitan Solutions 2016, as indeed it is for the numerous other international conferences with which, I am delighted to say, Metropolitan Solutions is partnering this year. Among them is the German Habitat Forum, which is committed to building a better urban future worldwide.
Last year, Berlin hosted Metropolitan Solutions for the very first time. And this year, the city has once again been selected as the home of this major international event. Why? Because it is an ideal rallying point for industries and stakeholders with an interest in urban development. Berlin is home to a wealth of creative minds and innovators from startups and established businesses. All individuals, companies and organizations with an interest in developing solutions for tomorrow’s urban challenges – whether climate-friendly transport technologies, energy efficiency or new modes of urban living – will find in Berlin the rich array of ideas and partners they need to help them on their way into the next technological age.
I am confident that the spirit of entrepreneurship and openness to change that characterize our city will again be a great inspiration to the visitors attending Metropolitan Solutions 2016. I therefore invite you all to visit the displays operated by local Berlin exhibitors and gain an impression of the many smart city activities happening in our city. To each and every visitor I wish a successful time at Metropolitan Solutions rich in stimulating encounters and, of course, a pleasant stay in our amazing city with its diverse and exciting cultural offering.
