Opening of the XII Metropolis World Congress - The world's metropolises are meeting in Montreal to discuss action on major global issues
MONTREAL, June 20, 2017 /CNW Telbec/ - The XII Metropolis World Congress officially kicked off this morning with an opening ceremony attended by numerous dignitaries, including the Honourable Denis Coderre, Mayor of Montreal and President of the Metropolis Association, and Monique F. Leroux, President of the Board of Directors of the Congress.
With "Global Challenges: Major Cities in Action" as its theme, this important meeting of the world's biggest cities is bringing together 140 mayors and 1,500 local and international delegates from 85 countries to Montreal's Palais des congrès until June 22. Their goal? To set the agenda for major cities and find solutions to global challenges.
"Cities play an essential role in resolving the complex problems of our era. Metropolises are practicing urban diplomacy, a new form of international relations that is recognized by the United Nations. I am proud that Montreal is hosting the XII Metropolis World Congress in this pivotal year as it celebrates its 375th anniversary, and that the city can reaffirm its leadership and proactive approach on several issues, including climate change, innovation, and migration and living together. I would like to extend a warm welcome to my counterparts who have come from around the world to emphasize, loud and clear, the crucial role that local governments play. I wish you all a great congress!" said Denis Coderre, Mayor of Montreal and President of Metropolis.
Knowledge transfer between the business, urban and civil communities
The large-scale conference is a meeting place for cities, NGOs and businesses offering innovative solutions to improve quality of life for city dwellers. In fact, some 50 startups have been selected for their innovation and will present their solutions for building smarter cities to delegates.
"Metropolises are facing major issues, particularly with regard to economic development and innovation, and I firmly believe that civil society and business people have a crucial role to play in overcoming these challenges and benefiting from the opportunities that stem from them. The XII Metropolis World Congress will make it possible for participants to share ideas, knowledge and best practices for the benefit of citizens at both the local and international levels," said Monique F. Leroux, President of the Board of Directors of the Congress.
The XII Metropolis World Congress is taking place at the same time as the annual assembly of the International Association of Francophone Mayors, once again confirming Montreal's new status as an attractive international city.
Several mayors will attend the congress, including:
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In addition, more than local and international 250 speakers and panelists will contribute to a very diverse program, including:
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Press representatives can get their accreditation here.
For pictures and other media materials, click here.
About Metropolis
Metropolis, World Association of the Major Metropolises, is the global network of major cities and metropolitan areas having populations greater than one million. Founded in 1985, the association comprises more than 140 members worldwide. It serves as an international forum for large cities from around the world to consult on urban issues and challenges.
SOURCE Ville de Montréal - Cabinet du maire et du comité exécutif
For further information: Source: Marc-André Gosselin, Press attaché, Office of the Mayor and Executive Committee, City of Montréal, 514-290-1194; Information: Laurie Fossat, 514-234-0535, [email protected]; Jules Chamberland-Lajoie, City of Montréal, 514-872-7426, [email protected]
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