Invitation from the Mayor of Perm, Igor Sapko 

It stands to reason that Perm was approved as the host city of the first ISOCARP Congress in Russia.

While working on a strategic master plan, the Perm General Plan and the implementation plan for the Perm General Plan, our city benefitted from a unique experience in urban planning. These documents were highly regarded at both national and international levels. In May 2010, the Perm strategic master plan was awarded the Grand Prix of the Moscow Biennale of Architecture.

Today we welcome debate. We are active in generating and receiving new ideas in culture, business, science, industry, management and urban planning. Revolutionary changes in urban development, applied in Perm today, are of great interest to national and international experts, and undoubtedly need further investigation and marketing.  I sincerely hope that the 48th ISOCARP Congress will explore these issues, bringing together leading international architects and planners in Perm. 

Welcome by ISOCARP President Ismael Fernández Mejía

We will meet in Perm!
 
Each year, the annual World Congress of the International Society of City and Regional Planners combines cutting edge presentations from international experts, papers from planners from all over the world, and discussions of challenging issues facing communities and governments everywhere, all in a unique atmosphere of collegiality and friendship. 

And each year, we meet in a new city that offers special opportunities for learning, discovery, and the stimulation of engaging with a new and fascinating place and culture.

In 2012, the Congress addresses the often overlooked but critically important issue of ‘urban speed’ – as outlined in General Rapporteur Stefan Rau’s introduction.  For the first time, the Congress will also include an International Planners’ Forum for papers on diverse topics of great interest.

in 2012, the Congress is being hosted in the City of Perm, the easternmost city in Europe, a city with a special place in Russian history, and a city which is recognised for its achievements in promoting the cultural economy and dynamic urban planning.
 
I acknowledge the outstanding work of the Local Organising Committee and ISOCARP’s Congress Team in ensuring that this will be another very rewarding and memorable Congress, and encourage you to be part of it.  I’m looking forward to seeing you in Perm!