United Cities and Local Governments Middle East and West Asia (UCLG-MEWA) participated in Bridge for Cities 2026, held in Vienna, Austria, from 28 to 30 October 2026. Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) under the theme “AI & Green Innovation: Powering a Sustainable Future,” the event brought together local government representatives, international organizations, and stakeholders from various sectors.
The three-day event focused on the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and digital transformation in urban governance, green innovation, urban decarbonization, and sustainable development. Key topics included the role of cities in addressing climate change, the integration of innovative technologies into local public services, and the strengthening of international cooperation.
On the first day, high-level sessions explored the impact of digital innovation and artificial intelligence on urban development, as well as green transition and urban industrial decarbonization. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between UNIDO and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) to strengthen cooperation, alongside the launch of the ScaleX Alliance of Cities initiative, aimed at promoting innovative urban solutions.
On the second day, the Mayors’ Dialogues provided a platform for local governments to share their experiences in digital transformation and climate action. Discussions addressed innovative solutions to urban challenges, sustainable infrastructure investments, and good practices implemented at the local level.
Local Governments from the MEWA Region Shared Their Experiences
During the Mayors’ Dialogue on Digital Innovation and AI, Amer Moati, Member of Saida Municipal Council, Lebanon, highlighted the challenges facing Saida and emphasized the importance of innovative, locally driven solutions in building more sustainable and resilient cities.
At the Mayors’ Dialogue on Green Transition and Urban Decarbonization, Ahmet Pekyatırmacı, Mayor of Selçuklu, Türkiye, shared Selçuklu Municipality’s initiatives in renewable energy, carbon emission reduction, and zero-waste practices.
Highlighting Selçuklu Municipality’s experience, Mayor Pekyatırmacı reported a 9% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and ongoing investments in solar energy. He emphasized that initiatives implemented at the local level can deliver tangible results toward achieving global climate goals.
The Importance of Intercity Cooperation Highlighted
Bridge for Cities 2026 provided an opportunity for local governments from different regions to exchange experiences and explore new avenues for cooperation in digital and green transformation.
UCLG-MEWA’s participation in the event contributed to the representation of local governments from the MEWA region on international platforms, the exchange of innovative urban practices, and the strengthening of partnerships for sustainable development.
The UCLG-MEWA delegation, comprising Secretary General Dr. Mehmet Duman, General Coordinator Yehia Ibrahim, and Research, Development and Projects Coordinator Beyza Çetin, also attended the Republic Day Reception hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Vienna on 29 October, marking the 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye.
