Hue (VNA) – More than 400 delegates from over 100 French-speaking cities of 57 countries worldwide gathered in the central city of Hue for the 45th General Assembly of the International Association of Francophone Mayors (AIMF), which officially opened on April 29.
Speaking at the event, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, also AIMF President, laid stress on the critical role city leaders play in confronting increasingly severe climate change impacts. She said the mayors have strived to pen effective solutions handling citizens’ daily challenges and prioritised gender equality, transport safety, and cultural heritage preservation. Meanwhile, Chairman of the Hue People’s Committee Nguyen Van Phuong highlighted AIMF's important initiatives in urban heritage and sustainable tourism over the years. He said Hue has been an active contributor to the association as well as demonstrated determination to deeper integration into international cooperation activities, particularly within the Francophone community framework.
Like many other member cities, Hue wishes to receive continued support from the association so that cooperation will bring tangible benefits to each member and the community, he added.
Running from April 27-30, the event features numerous specialised events including a workshop on heritage and sustainable tourism, a meeting of the Southeast Asian cities network, and a seminar on responding to the climate change emergency. These gatherings aim to strengthen cooperation among member cities while promoting dialogue and international solidarity to address major global challenges through practical actions that serve citizens' essential needs.
Within the AIMF network, Hue has been particularly active in cultural affairs, heritage preservation, and sustainable development. The association has supported the city with numerous projects, including establishing a French-speaking student reception centre in 1998, environmental and heritage restoration in the Citadel area during 2003-2008, and constructing a sludge treatment station producing fertiliser for agricultural activities.
Hue is developing multiple bilateral cooperation projects with French-speaking cities, with a primary focus on heritage conservation./.
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