AUDI Director General Moderates Session on “City Diplomacy” During International Society of City and Regional Planners Congress in Riyadh

H.E. Dr. Anas Al-Mughairy, Director General of the Arab Urban Development Institute (AUDI), moderated a session titled “The Importance of Partnerships in the Success of City Diplomacy” at the International Council of Urban Planners (ISOCARP61). The session explored the expanding role of cities in fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange to drive global urban transformation, highlighting leading initiatives such as the Arab European Cities Dialogue Forum (AECD) and Riyadh’s leadership in advancing these transformative urban efforts.

During the session, urban experts reviewed global urbanization, describing it as the largest demographic shift in human history. The discussion emphasized that “city diplomacy” has become a strategic tool enabling cities to cooperate and share experiences to tackle challenges such as population growth, service delivery, and climate change.

The session further underscored the significance of city partnerships as an effective means to address urban issues, promote the exchange of best practices, and advance sustainable development goals. Riyadh was highlighted as a leading hub for urban transformation, both regionally and globally, demonstrating the city’s pivotal role in shaping innovative and resilient urban futures.