“Young people are at the forefront of advocating for stronger measures to address climate crises, and we must turn their bold ideas into tangible achievements,” he added. 

Moreover, Ahmed Zayed, the director of Bibliotheca Alexandrina, highlighted the library’s role in educating youth on environmental and urban sustainability through government partnerships. He praised Egypt’s strategic approach to urban challenges and highlighted Alexandria as a symbol of peace and progress. 

The event, observed annually on 31 October, features a unique theme each year to spotlight specific urban challenges and inspire targeted action towards sustainable urban development. 

This year’s ceremony, themed “Youth Leading Climate and Local Action for Cities,” opened with the film “A Tale of a City,” showcasing Alexandria’s growth from its founding by King Alexander the Great to its modern role as an urban and cultural leader. 

The film also highlighted the city’s historic urban leadership and resilience in tackling modern climate challenges.  

In tandem, the event included various cultural, art, sports, and entertainment programmes, all aimed at fostering youth participation in building resilient, sustainable cities.

In addition, the event highlighted state-led climate resilience projects, including rainwater management and 11 shoreline protection initiatives.

It also showcased efforts to improve living conditions by developing new residential areas and removing slums, with the Masharef City project featured as a key example of Alexandria’s forward-looking urban development.

World Cities Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2014 to promote global interest in urbanization and foster cooperation among nations to address urban challenges.

It serves as a prelude to Egypt’s upcoming hosting of the 12th World Urban Forum (WUF12) in Cairo from 4 to 8 November, bringing together experts and leaders to discuss urban challenges and share best practices for sustainable city development.