San Salvador has become the epicenter of urban diplomacy as it hosts the 20th Meeting of International Relations Directors of the Union of Ibero-American Capital Cities (UCCI). The event brings together representatives from 29 Ibero-American cities to exchange experiences, tackle common challenges, and define strategies for sustainable development.
Mayor Mario Durán, who also serves as Co-President of UCCI, emphasized the importance of this gathering, stating, “Since 1996, the UCCI has united mayors and coordinators to address shared challenges. Today, San Salvador is the cradle of dialogue and new initiatives that will shape the future of our Ibero-American cities.”
The meeting, held in San Salvador Centro, showcases the city’s remarkable transformation. Mayor Durán will present the Centro Histórico de San Salvador as a success story in urban recovery, demonstrating how, in just four years, the city has evolved into a model of innovation, sustainability, and order.
As the host city, San Salvador welcomes delegations from 19 major cities, including Barcelona, Bogotá, Buenos Aires, Madrid, Santiago, and São Paulo, among others. The event serves as a key platform for strengthening cooperation, establishing joint action plans, and preparing for the upcoming UCCI General Assembly in Buenos Aires later this year.
Almudena Maíllo del Valle, Secretary General of UCCI, underscored the significance of this gathering, encouraging participants to contribute innovative ideas that will shape the organization’s future. “This meeting is a unique opportunity to consolidate the voice of our cities on the global stage,” she remarked.
The two-day event will also focus on technical cooperation and training, essential pillars of UCCI’s mission. Discussions will address ongoing projects, the impact of capacity-building programs on local governance, and strategies to expand international partnerships.
With this meeting, San Salvador reaffirms its leadership in urban diplomacy, setting a precedent for future collaborations that will drive sustainable and inclusive development across Ibero-American cities.