Mayor of Banjul thanks Azerbaijan for supporting local self-government in developing countries

The global community must move from declarations to concrete action in combating climate change, as cities and vulnerable communities are already facing the consequences of the climate crisis today, Rohey Malik Lowe, Mayor of Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, said during the panel session "Peace-positive climate action through urban solutions in fragile and conflict-affected areas" held within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum 13 in Baku.

Report quotes the mayor of the Gambian capital as saying numerous international discussions and climate summits must be accompanied by practical steps and real support for countries most vulnerable to climate risks.

"I call on the international community to stop limiting itself to declarations and move toward real action in the field of climate policy. Meetings are useful, but we need to start acting," Lowe emphasized.

She noted that cities in the Global South, despite limited resources, are already on the front lines in dealing with the consequences of climate change - from floods and rising sea levels to problems with access to water and growing social vulnerability.

The mayor also expressed gratitude to Azerbaijan for supporting initiatives in the field of local self-government and sustainable development in developing countries. According to her, with the support of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a water project is being implemented in Banjul aimed at empowering women and ensuring girls" access to education.