This autumn, the historic Bund in Shanghai will transform into a global stage for a critical conversation about the future of our cities. The highly anticipated Inclusion·Conference on the Bund 2025 (ICB 2025) has officially commenced its preparatory work, setting the scene for what promises to be a landmark gathering of the world’s foremost thinkers, policymakers, and business leaders.
Scheduled for September 11-13, the event will center on the powerful theme of “Inclusion and Innovation: The Future of Urban Development.” This theme was chosen to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time: ensuring that rapid technological advancement and economic growth benefit all members of society, leaving no one behind. The conference aims to forge a path toward cities that are not only smart but also equitable and sustainable.
A Convergence of Global Minds on the Bund
The iconic waterfront of The Bund will provide a symbolic backdrop for discussions that will shape metropolitan life for decades to come. The conference agenda is designed to foster deep, meaningful dialogue across a range of critical topics. Key areas of focus will include the ethical development and application of artificial intelligence, the creation of sustainable and resilient urban infrastructures, and the promotion of social equity through thoughtful policy and inclusive business practices.
Organizers emphasize that the goal is to move beyond theoretical discussion and toward actionable solutions. “Our aim is to build a high-level platform for dialogue,” a representative stated, “one that encourages the cross-border exchange of ideas and fosters practical cooperation between the public and private sectors to tackle common urban challenges.”
Building on a Legacy of Impactful Dialogue
ICB 2025 is not an isolated event but the next chapter in a growing legacy. It follows the successful inaugural Inclusion·Conference on the Bund, which took place in September of last year. That event proved to be a catalytic force, generating significant momentum and establishing a vital network of leaders committed to inclusive progress.
The upcoming 2025 conference is expected to significantly expand on that foundation, drawing an even more diverse and influential cohort of international participants. By continuing this annual dialogue, Shanghai is solidifying its role as a central hub for global thought leadership on sustainable development and social innovation.
As preparations get underway, the international community is watching with keen interest. The outcomes from this confluence of ideas on the banks of the Huangpu River are anticipated to provide a crucial blueprint for building the inclusive, innovative, and humane cities of tomorrow.
