Geneva, 12 October 2026– H.E. Mr.ErzhanKazykhan, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, and Mr. Arman Sabitov, Deputy Mayor of Shymkent, participated in the Sixth United Nations Forum of Mayors, taking place in Geneva on 12–13 October 2026 under the theme “Cities Delivering for a Sustainable Future”.
Organized under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe ( UNECE), in cooperation with other United Nations regional commissions and with the support of the World Intellectual Property Organization ( WIPO), Global Cities Hub and other partners, the Forum is being held at WIPO headquarters and brings together approximately 80 city leaders from around the world.
Discussions focus primarily on the practical implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals at the local level, particularly Sustainable Development Goal 11, “Sustainable Cities and Communities”. The Forum’s agenda is aligned with the outcomes of the United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, held in New York in July 2026.
Participants are addressing a range of issues, including access to affordable and sustainable housing, the development of environmentally friendly transport and improvements in road safety, reducing the adverse environmental impact of cities, promoting green infrastructure and nature-based solutions, sustainable urban planning, disaster risk management, and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.
Particular attention is being paid to innovation and creative approaches to urban development, including the application of modern solutions to improve the quality of the urban environment and ensure inclusive and sustainable development.
The United Nations Forum of Mayors is held annually and provides a platform for direct engagement between city leaders and the United Nations system, the exchange of practical experience, and the promotion of solutions for sustainable urbanization.
The participation of the Kazakh delegation provides an opportunity to showcase national and municipal experience in sustainable development, learn from leading international practices, and strengthen cooperation with foreign cities and international organizations on contemporary urban policy.
