Rio de Janeiro, November 25, 2024 – A high-ranking Saudi Arabian delegation, led by Fahd Al-Rasheed, Advisor to the General Secretariat of the Saudi Arabian Council of Ministers, participated in the 7th Urban 20 Global Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The summit, an influential platform for cities from G20 nations, serves as a critical meeting point to discuss pressing global issues such as economic development, climate change, and urbanization challenges. The delegation's presence underscored Saudi Arabia's commitment to contributing to global dialogues on urban development and its leadership in shaping sustainable future cities.
One of the significant events during the summit was a mayoral dinner co-hosted by Al-Rasheed and Eduardo Paes, the Mayor of Rio de Janeiro and Chair of this year’s Urban 20. The dinner, which marked a historical first for the summit, brought together over 100 influential city leaders from around the world, including mayors from major cities like Paris, Pretoria, Helsinki, and Phoenix. The event provided a unique opportunity to celebrate the role of mayors and their leadership in shaping urban policy and improving city life for millions.
The dinner also saw the participation of global organizations, including Anacludia Rossbach, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, reflecting the importance of collaboration across municipal, national, and international entities in tackling urban issues. In his remarks, Al-Rasheed emphasized the critical role of mayoral leadership in guiding cities through technological advancements, economic transitions, and demographic changes. He highlighted the significance of urban development in improving the daily lives of citizens and reiterated Saudi Arabia's dedication to fostering international partnerships in line with the goals of the Urban 20.
By hosting such a prestigious event, Saudi Arabia has further demonstrated its unwavering commitment to global collaboration, fostering a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by cities worldwide. The summit serves as a stepping stone in aligning cities’ goals toward a sustainable, equitable, and resilient urban future for all.