The Administrative Board Meeting of the United Cities and Local Governments Middle East and West Asia Section (UCLG-MEWA), of which the Union of Turkish World Municipalities (TDBB) is also a board member, began with an opening ceremony hosted by Niğde Municipality on April 20, 2026. The meeting was attended by TDBB President and Mayor of Konya Metropolitan Municipality Uğur İbrahim Altay, TDBB Secretary General Taha Zahid Özdemir, and local government representatives from 13 countries.
The UCLG-MEWA 2026 Administrative Board Meeting was held under the theme of “Urban Innovation.” During the meeting, the topic of “Climate Change Adaptation Policies Based on Water Stress” was discussed.
In his remarks, President Uğur İbrahim Altay emphasized that the MEWA region is facing challenges such as water stress, food security, rapid urbanization, and increasing inequalities. He stated: “At the same time, conflicts and humanitarian crises are increasing the pressure on our cities every day. In particular, the humanitarian tragedy that began with Israel’s attacks in Gaza and has spread across the region, especially to Iran and Lebanon, once again reminds us of the responsibility of local governments. As local leaders entrusted with the confidence of our citizens, we must not only provide services but also act as agents who strengthen solidarity, protect human dignity, and contribute to reconstruction processes. Therefore, it is essential—especially under the umbrella of UCLG—to develop more coordinated, faster, and more effective mechanisms in response to crises.”
Mayor of Niğde Emrah Özdemir also delivered a presentation on environmentally friendly and innovative projects implemented by the municipality. He highlighted that Niğde has reached a significant level in sustainable urbanism, particularly through its advanced modern biological wastewater treatment facility, solar energy (GES) renewable projects, and a savings-based profit-sharing model.
At the meeting, President of the Union of Turkish Cypriot Municipalities and Co-President of UCLG-MEWA Mahmut Özçınar, as well as Niğde Governor Nedim Akmeşe, delivered greeting speeches. Secretary General of the Arab Towns Organization, Badr Al-Ajeel Al-Askar, also attended the opening online.
The UCLG-MEWA Administrative Board u Meeting, which includes sessions on various topics with contributions from local and regional leaders, is scheduled to conclude on Wednesday.
