Riyadh: The first edition of the Arab European Cities Dialogue Forum will commence on Sunday in Riyadh, organized by the Riyadh Municipality under the theme 'City Partnerships for a Better Future.' Running until May 13, the forum is organized in cooperation with the Arab Urban Development Institute, PLATFORMA-a platform of the Association of European Municipalities and Regions-and the International Cooperation Agency of the Association of Netherlands Municipalities.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the forum serves as a strategic platform to strengthen ties between Arab and European cities, promote city diplomacy, and support efforts toward more sustainable and inclusive urban development. Riyadh's selection as the inaugural host city underscores its prominent standing in the regional and international urban landscape and its vital role in supporting municipal initiatives and fostering cross-border partnerships.
The forum will host several secretaries, mayors, and municipal leaders from various cities, alongside international organizations, municipal unions, and donor institutions specializing in development projects. This positions the forum as a key meeting point for decision-makers in the municipal and development sectors, and as an opportunity to strengthen institutional communication and share successful experiences.
The forum's sessions and discussions will focus on key urban challenges, most notably improving the quality of municipal services, developing infrastructure, digital transformation, sustainable financing, and addressing the impacts of climate change. It will also explore mechanisms for multilevel cooperation between cities and international entities.
The forum is expected to yield practical, actionable recommendations that enhance cities' capacities for participatory planning and sustainable financing, while opening new avenues for cooperation between cities and donor institutions. These outcomes align with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the mission of the Riyadh Municipality to deliver high-quality municipal services and build effective partnerships that boost the efficiency and sustainability of urban development.