Global Urban Governance in Focus at 9th Hangzhou International Sister City Mayors Conference

Mayors and representatives from 15 countries gathered for the 9th Hangzhou International Sister City Mayors Conference on September 25. The event, which focused on “Urban Governance and Sustainable Development,” brought together leaders to discuss pressing challenges, emerging trends, and shared experiences in city planning and sustainable development.

A key highlight of the conference was the “Global Mayors Dialogue,” where delegates from countries such as South Africa, Italy, Greece, Malaysia, and Tajikistan engaged in discussions on future urban challenges and sustainable development initiatives.

During the opening ceremony, Nektarios Farmakis, governor of the Western Greece region, and Yao Gaoyuan, mayor of Hangzhou, signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation. This partnership will operate under the EU-China regional policy cooperation mechanism, aiming to foster collaboration between the two regions. Western Greece, known for its rich cultural heritage and growing digital and healthcare industries, is looking to explore joint ventures with Hangzhou in these sectors.

Additionally, Hangzhou signed a letter of intent for friendly exchanges with Isfahan, Iran. Like Hangzhou, Isfahan is renowned for its historical significance and tourism, boasting a wealth of Islamic architecture, palaces, and cultural landmarks from ancient Persia.

Hangzhou has been actively building its sister city network since the 1970s and now boasts 31 international sister cities and 42 international friendly exchange cities. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the city’s sister city network and the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. Since the first mayor’s conference in 2008, Hangzhou has hosted numerous events aimed at strengthening global ties and promoting international cooperation.

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