Ilsur Metshin performed at the UCLG Presidium Meeting
Emilia Saiz was re-elected as Secretary General of the Global Organization.
Mayor of Kazan, President of the Eurasian Branch of UCLG, and President of the UN Advisory Committee on Local Authorities Ilsur Metshin participated in the UCLG Presidium meeting via video link. During the meeting, the term of office of Emilia Saiz, who has served as Secretary General of the organization since 2017, was extended. The meeting participants were welcomed by UCLG President Ugur Ibrahim Altay.

This year, the World Organization "United Cities and Local Governments" celebrates its 20th anniversary. The same milestone is being marked by its Eurasian branch, which was established on April 2, 2004, in Kazan.

“Sustainable development goals are being adopted, climate initiatives and the principles of responsible consumption and production are being promoted. Today, we unite more than 800 municipalities from countries across the Eurasian region and continue to develop dynamically, defending the interests of local authorities in Eurasia and strengthening the global municipal movement as a whole,” noted the Mayor.

According to Ilsur Metshin, despite the complex international situation, the unity of the organization remains intact. The members of the association pursue common goals aimed at creating favorable conditions in cities and promoting the development of the international municipal movement.
“I am grateful to all members of the Presidium and to Secretary General Emilia Saiz for preserving the unity of the organization and for supporting the common goals of UCLG,” emphasized the President of the Eurasian Branch of the organization.

Last year, UCLG-Eurasia held training seminars on the Sustainable Development Goals in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and cities of Russia. Secretary General Emilia Saiz has personally contributed to the achievements of the organization. The Mayor noted her invaluable role in maintaining the organization’s unity under challenging geopolitical circumstances.

“Many of our achievements are a reflection of the personal work, effort, and dedication of Emilia. It is now time to extend her term as Secretary General of UCLG. If the esteemed Emilia Saiz agrees to continue working for the benefit of the organization, we, on behalf of the cities of Eurasia, are ready to support her candidacy. I wish you and the entire organization success in your work and further strengthening of our positions in the defense of local self-government,” addressed Ilsur Metshin to the Secretary General of UCLG.

Emilia Saiz then presented a report on the current state of the organization. The meeting participants also discussed the UCLG’s priorities for 2024 and the role of local and regional authorities in the context of the current geopolitical situation.