In Hangzhou, regional officials from around the world have gathered for the Global Mayors Dialogue. Topics range from sustainable development to digital innovation, among other major trends. Cao Chufeng has the story.
Organized by CGTN along with the Zhejiang provincial and Hangzhou municipal governments, the Global Mayors Dialogue has officially opened its doors. Regional government officials from 16 countries, including China, as well as representative from consulates in the country, have gathered in Hangzhou. The host city is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, and is considered one of China's leading centers for innovation.
LIU JIE, Deputy Secretary, CPC Zhejiang Provincial Committee, Secretary, CPC Hangzhou Municipal Committee "Hangzhou is a thriving city with innovative vitality. The city's modern industrial system, centered on the digital economy, continues to deepen. For three consecutive years the city has ranked fourteenth on the global innovation index and for its technological clusters."
A panel discussion with regional officials from across different continents was hosted during the event. Sustainable development was one of the main focuses of the discussions, with guests sharing their thoughts on problems their cities face and paths toward progress.
NEKTARIOS FARMAKIS, Regional Governor of Western Greece "The challenges today is the protection of natural resources, and the fight against the climate change, and through technology, through cooperation of the local authorities, of the national authorities, and of course the international cooperation, it can help us overdrive these problems."
LAURA FINCATO, Former Italian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Representative of the Mayor of Venice "Now is certain, the sea level is so high at the moment, the city is so dangerous in the certain moment, we are to think now about the future, not the future so long, so future now."
Innovative development for cities in the age of the digital economy is another point of focus for the panel.
YAO GAOYUAN, Mayor of Hangzhou, China "Since 2022, we have vigorously promoted the use of digital technology for traffic governance, while leveraging technologies like the Internet of Things and big data to manage transportation. After implementing the initiative, the traffic speed on our city roads has increased by over 20-percent."
CAO CHUFENG, Hangzhou "Guests attending the event say city-level discussions among different countries is crucial Not only does it foster more understanding and cooperation between regions, but also provides new ideas and solutions for urban governance. Cao Chufeng, CGTN, Hangzhou."
