Abdul Karim az-Zubeidi, President of the Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA), chaired the presidential meeting of the United Cities and Local Governments – Middle East and West Asia Section (UCLG-MEWA) Committee on City Diplomacy and Local Governance. The meeting was an event of the UCLG-MEWA Executive Bureau and Council Joint Meeting.

In his opening remarks at the City-to-City Cooperation, Al-Zubeidi highlighted the importance of promoting cooperation between cities in view of the significant challenges facing Palestinian cities. City-to-city cooperation is not just a theoretical concept, but a vital tool to strengthen community resilience, particularly in the face of increasing crises. Al-Zubeidi reviewed model local innovation in Palestine, indicating Palestinian communities’ capability of adaptation and innovation in difficult circumstances as well as use of innovative techniques to ensure the continuity of basic services.

Al-Zubeidi reiterated his call for representatives of member cities at the UCLG-MEWA to take the initiative and stand by Palestinian cities in view of the major challenges they encounter. He stressed the need for immediate multilevel action and pressure to end the brutal war against Palestinians. Effective steps should be taken to put pressure on governments and international organizations and support Palestinian cities’ tireless efforts to meet citizens’ needs and continue to provide basic services.

At the thematic session, discussion addressed the importance of bolstering partnerships between cities and exchanging experiences and resources to cope with socioeconomic and environmental development challenges. The audience deliberated a set of innovative solutions to be adopted by local government units to handle common challenges. New communication channels will also be established to promote city-to-city cooperation and enhance local government action.