In Message for Ibero-America Capital Cities Union, Secretary-General Underlines Role Local Governments Can Play towards Achieving Sustainable Development

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message to the General Assembly of the Union of Capital Cities of Ibero-America, being held in San Jose, Costa Rica, from 19 to 20 April:

It is a pleasure to greet the General Assembly of the Union of Capital Cities of Ibero-America and leaders of the United Cities and Local Governments.

Mayors and local governments have vital roles to play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, combating climate change and making cities safer, healthier and more inclusive.

You can increase ambition on climate mitigation and adaptation and help your national Government to bend its emission curve.

You also have the power to provide life-saving services to migrants and refugees.

Cities can be engines of economic, social and environmental transformation.

I count on you to develop innovative policies to implement our common goals.

Thank you for your commitment, and please accept my best wishes for a successful gathering.

Gracias y obrigado.