The Association of Palestinian Local Authorities (APLA), in partnership with the Barcelona Provincial Council and Barcelona Municipality, concluded the first training round under the Catalan–Palestinian Municipal Cooperation Initiative, District 11: Cities of Palestine, entitled “Urban Resilience, Urban Planning and Water Management” The training was held in Amman, Jordan, from 15–17 September 2026, with the participation of 12 representatives from 12 Palestinian Local Government Units (LGUs), alongside representatives and experts from Catalan municipalities, institutions, and universities.
The training addressed a number of topics related to urban planning, water resource management, and climate change adaptation, including urban resilience, urban space planning, stormwater management, green infrastructure and biodiversity, nature-based solutions, and enhancing cities’ capacity to adapt to climate-related risks.
The training brought together representatives from the municipalities of Beitunia, Deir al-Ghusoun, Beit Ula, Kafr Raie, Yabad, Asira Al-Shamaliya, Al-Ramadeen, As-Samu, Surda Abu Qash, Attara, Barta'a, and Jaba' in Jenin, alongside nine experts from four Catalan municipalities: Gavà, Mollet del Vallès, Sant Boi de Llobregat, and Viladecans. The program included a series of technical sessions and specialised presentations, as well as thematic group discussions where participating Palestinian LGUs presented their municipal experiences and challenges related to urban planning. These sessions provided opportunities to exchange knowledge and experiences with Catalan experts and municipalities. The program also included a Twinning Lab session aimed at strengthening international decentralized cooperation between the participating LGUs and their Catalan counterparts, identifying areas of cooperation, and exploring opportunities to develop partnerships and sign agreements between the two sides.
The training is part of the activities of the Catalan–Palestinian Municipal Cooperation Initiative, District 11: Cities of Palestine, implemented by APLA to strengthen decentralized cooperation and city diplomacy, promote knowledge and experience exchange between Palestinian LGUs and Catalan municipalities, build international partnerships, and create pathways for developing joint development projects.
