Global Mayors Dialogue 2026 in Ningbo: A Pathway to High-Quality Urban Development

Mayors from Around the World Gather in Ningbo

On November 2, 2026, Ningbo, a vibrant city in eastern China, hosted the main event of the Global Mayors Dialogue 2026. This pivotal gathering attracted mayors from various countries who came together to exchange experiences and discuss strategies for fostering high-quality urban development.

Ningbo, located in Zhejiang Province, has an extensive network of trade and investment ties with over 220 countries and regions. The city has played a significant role in the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to enhance global connectivity and economic collaboration. During the dialogue, Ningbo's Party Secretary, Wang Cheng, highlighted the importance of collaboration between cities, stressing their vital roles in economic globalization and cultural exchange.

Wayne Brown, the mayor of Auckland, New Zealand, emphasized the need for cities to adapt to technological advancements and globalization. He presented Auckland's geographical and trade advantages, underscoring the significance of international partnerships. Similarly, Said Karimi, the mayor of Errachidia, Morocco, expressed hopes for strengthened investment relationships, given his city's rich tourism and mineral resources.

Joachim Moyse, mayor of Saint-Étienne-du-Rouvray, France, outlined his city's industrial history while expressing a desire for collaborative efforts with Ningbo. Local leaders from various nations echoed a commitment to deepen educational, cultural, and industrial cooperation with the city.

Ningbo’s mayor, Shen Mingquan, stated that the city has solidified its partnerships with many international cities, emphasizing its reliability as a beneficial partner for foreign collaborators. He noted that Ningbo has established scientific and technological innovation partnerships with over 100 countries and has formed relationships with over 500 foreign universities.

As part of the event, 14 agreements were signed in areas such as trade, education, and culture. These included the