From May 12 to 14, 2025, the GPSC held its first City Academy for Asia in Guangzhou, co-organized with the China Center for Urban Development (CCUD) in collaboration with the Guangzhou Municipal Planning and Natural Resources Bureau and with support from the Guangzhou Urban Planning and Survey Research Institute (GZPI).

 

The Academy brought together policymakers, technical experts, and development partners from across Asia and beyond to explore practical, forward-looking solutions for green, resilient, and inclusive urban development. As the region continues to urbanize at an unprecedented pace, cities face growing climate and environmental pressures that require a fundamental shift in how urban development is planned and financed.

 

Thanks to your leadership and close collaboration, the Academy highlighted the urgency of moving beyond siloed approaches—toward integrated, climate-smart, and nature-positive urban development models that respond to both local priorities and global challenges. The resounding success of the Academy underscored the value of strong partnerships between national institutions and global platforms in advancing impactful peer learning, policy dialogue, and knowledge exchange.