United Cities and Local Governments Middle East and West Asia Section (UCLG-MEWA) made a significant impact at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) from July 14-18, 2025, powerfully advocating for the critical role of local governments in achieving global objectives. With high-level delegations from Konya and Al Madinah, the organization showcased the region’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the forum, held under the theme “A Networked Multilateralism for Present and Future Generations: Local Governments at the Heart of the Countdown to 2030.”
The UCLG-MEWA delegation, led by Secretary General Dr. Mehmet Duman, played a central role in the week’s proceedings. Dr. Duman delivered a compelling opening address at a side event titled “Act Local, Accelerate Global: Advancing Inclusive, Science- and Evidence-based Solutions for SDG Localization in the Arab Region,” emphasizing the MEWA region’s commitment to data-driven decision-making.
The forum was further distinguished by the prominent participation of delegations, including Fahad ALBULIHESHI, Mayor of Al Madinah, and Uğur İbrahim ALTAY, Mayor of Konya and UCLG Executive President. Both cities presented their local experiences and successful SDG projects at the 8th Local and Regional Governments Forum (LRGF), sharing valuable practices with a global audience.
Strategic Agreement for the Future at Türkevi (Turkish House)
The diplomatic meetings held at the Türkevi (Turkish House) in New York were one of the most concrete outcomes of the visit. In meetings with Turkey’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Ahmet Yıldız, and New York Consul General, Ambassador Muhittin Ahmet Yazal, it was decided that a significant event would be organized in partnership with UCLG-MEWA, WALD, and the Konya Metropolitan Municipality.
The request for the event titled “SDGs Five Years to 2030: International Young Leaders New York Session,” planned for September 2025 at the Türkevi, was positively received by the diplomatic representatives, and an agreement was reached among the parties. This initiative stands out as a concrete step towards including future leaders in the sustainable development process.
Throughout the week, the UCLG-MEWA delegation actively participated in numerous sessions addressing the acceleration of local SDG actions, the relationship between SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and other goals, and the challenges of the localization process.
This active role of UCLG-MEWA and its member municipalities at HLPF 2025 once again reinforced the global consensus that the leadership of local and regional governments is indispensable for the success of the 2030 Agenda.
