UCLG President Altay attended the inaugural meeting of the BRICS+ Cities and Local Governments Cooperation

The President of United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) and Mayor of Konya Metropolitan Municipality, Uğur İbrahim Altay, attended the Establishment Meeting of BRICS+ Cities and Local Governments Union. Speaking at the program held in Kazan, the capital of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russia, President Altay expressed his pleasure in participating in such a program that will further strengthen the role of cities in the international system. As the president of the world’s largest local government organization, he emphasized that the BRICS+ Cities and Local Governments Union, which is a significant initiative for the economic growth, development, and social advancement of cities, is a major step. President Altay, drawing attention to the oppression by Israel towards Palestine, stated that Israel not only kills innocents but also kills human rights, conscience, and mercy. He called for unity to prevent this oppression, establish justice, and make efforts to stop this massacre. He invited everyone who stands for peace, freedom, and justice to solidarity for the establishment of peace in Palestine. President Altay highlighted the importance of international cooperation to address global challenges and achieve sustainable development, emphasizing that the BRICS+ Cities and Local Governments Union is a unique opportunity to maximize this cooperation and turn it into concrete projects through cities and municipalities. The Declaration on Establishing the BRICS+ Local Governments Union was also released during the meeting. President Altay concluded his speech by stating that by working together, we can ensure a brighter future for our cities and citizens. After the meeting, President Altay made evaluations, mentioning the importance of supporting stronger representation of local governments on every platform. He emphasized the need for the voices of local governments to be heard more strongly in international alliances. President Altay expressed his condemnation of the genocide committed by Israel in Palestine and the urgent need for peace to be established. As the President of World Municipalities Organization, he reiterated his commitment to supporting the stronger representation of local governments on every platform. He thanked the President of the Republic of Tatarstan and the Mayor of Kazan for their hospitality.