The Guangzhou UCLG 2020 World Council commences online on Nov 12 in Guangzhou. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The Guangzhou UCLG 2020 World Council commenced online on Nov 12 in Guangzhou, gathering around 350 representatives from 189 cities, local governments, and international organizations of 48 countries around the world.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has posed a strong challenge to cities all over the world, with this event being held on schedule fully showcasing the determination and consensus among global cities in fighting against the pandemic and pushing forward cooperation.

"Although I cannot attend the meeting in Guangzhou, I can still meet all of you online," said Mohamed Boudra, mayor of Al Hoceima, Morocco and president of UCLG.

"We should build our communities into ones that are more livable and that can better meet the needs of vulnerable groups, providing better public services for people."

Boudra added that many concepts may change in the post-pandemic era, such as taking the development needs of future generations into consideration in urban planning.

"The impact of the pandemic is unprecedented and there are still countries and regions currently suffering from the second wave of the pandemic. Yet some countries and regions have successfully controlled the situation, setting excellent examples," said Maimunah Mohd Sharif, executive director of UN-Habitat.

Sharif added that all parties should work together to establish a new development model that is sustainable, open, wide-reaching, and people-oriented. "Only by solidarity and cooperation can we win the fight against the pandemic," said Sharif.