The opening panel session of the Arab-European Cities Dialogue Forum, titled “Urban Transformation Through Cross-Border Cooperation,” explored ways to strengthen collaboration between Arab and European cities in areas such as cultural exchange, climate change, sustainable development, economic growth, and city diplomacy as a tool for addressing shared challenges. The forum, organized by Riyadh Municipality under the theme “City Partnerships for a Better Future,” runs until May 13.

Panelists included Dr. Lorenzo Kihlgren Grandi, Director of the City Diplomacy Lab; Dr. Yousef Al-Shawarbeh, Mayor of Amman; Fatima El Moudni, Mayor of Rabat; José Luis Martínez-Almeida, Mayor of Madrid; and Emilia Saiz, Secretary-General of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG).

The speakers emphasized that cooperation among cities is no longer optional, but a strategic necessity to confront today’s global challenges—particularly amid increasing climate and urban pressures. Constructive dialogue, they agreed, is fundamental to achieving sustainable development.

They stressed the importance of evolving city relations into effective institutional partnerships that enhance resilience and enable knowledge-sharing.

Dr. Yousef Al-Shawarbeh highlighted how urban challenges vary across cities, making dialogue a strategic tool to share experiences and develop efficient, context-specific solutions.

Mayor Fatima El Moudni underlined the importance of cultural heritage integration in urban development and shared several programs implemented in Rabat that reflect this approach.

Madrid’s Mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, spoke about the fruitful cooperation between Madrid and Riyadh in key sectors, reaffirming his city’s commitment to sustainability, quality of life, talent development, and innovation.

Emilia Saiz commended the value of such forums in fostering urban dialogue, noting that they enrich international partnerships and inspire innovative ideas. She called for continued engagement and broader global connectivity among cities.

The session concluded with a consensus on the critical role of urban dialogue in overcoming barriers and elevating quality of life beyond traditional models. Through joint efforts and openness to modern technological and environmental experiences, cities can achieve tangible outcomes—such as reduced emissions and improved daily life.

The speakers praised Saudi Arabia’s leadership in hosting the forum, underscoring the Kingdom’s pioneering role in guiding cities across the region toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for upcoming generations.