On April 7, 2025, the GPSC hosted a Multilateral Development Banks Engagement Meeting in Paris that brought together multilateral development banks, financial institutions, and the GEF Secretariat to forge stronger partnerships for sustainable urban development. The meeting sparked vibrant discussions on how to better align efforts, scale impact, and co-create solutions for cities facing the twin challenges of rapid urbanization and climate vulnerability. From green infrastructure and nature-positive planning to project preparation and private sector engagement, participants shared innovative ideas and practical strategies to drive the next wave of urban transformation.

 

The GPSC serves as a global knowledge hub, fostering connections among cities and partners across a wide range of disciplines. It offers technical expertise, cutting-edge tools, and a collaborative space for cities to address the complex challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change. As a core initiative of the GPSC, the proposed engagement with MDBs and Financial Institutions (FIs) aims to advance the urban sustainability agenda by enhancing coordination and strategic collaboration. MDBs and FIs are critical actors in financing sustainable urban development. However, opportunities remain to deepen their coordination and engagement within the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF-8) Sustainable Cities Integrated Program (SCIP).

Objectives of the Session