Trần Sỹ Thanh, Chairman of the Hà Nội People’s Committee., attended the Meeting of Governors and Mayors of ASEAN Capitals (MGMAC) and the ASEAN Mayors Forum (AMF). — VNA/VNS Photo

VIENTIANE — The Meeting of Governors and Mayors of ASEAN Capitals (MGMAC) and the ASEAN Mayors Forum (AMF) officially opened in Vientiane, Laos, on September 18.

The event gathered representatives from ASEAN capitals and cities, including ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn. The Vietnamese delegation was led by Trần Sỹ Thanh, Chairman of the Hà Nội People’s Committee.

In his opening remarks, Atsaphangthong Siphandone, Mayor of Vientiane, highlighted that since their inception in 2012, MGMAC and AMF have served as important platforms for local leaders to engage, exchange ideas, and strengthen cooperation among ASEAN capitals and cities. They provide the venues for discussions on solutions to shared challenges and strategies to benefit both individual cities and the region as a whole.

The 2024 MGMAC, under the theme "Strengthening Connectivity and Resilience for Sustainable Development in ASEAN Cities," focused on five key areas: livable and sustainable cities, green tourism, sustainable economic development, environmentally sustainable cities, and climate change resilience.

On this occasion, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone praised the event as a vital opportunity for ASEAN mayors to follow through on commitments from previous meetings. He emphasised the significance of fostering modern, livable, and sustainable urban development.

The meeting is expected to play a crucial role in promoting urban development, facilitating the exchange of best practices, and implementing action plans to enhance connectivity and resilience in ASEAN capitals and cities. — VNA/VNS