Seoul Hosts Launch Ceremony for the 7th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation

Guangzhou Award Launched in Seoul

On September 29, 2025, the launch ceremony for the 7th Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation took place in Seoul, South Korea, during the Metropolis Board meeting, which celebrated the organization's 40th anniversary. Distinguished guests included Mr. Hu Hao, Vice Mayor of Guangzhou, Mr. Jordi Vaquer, Secretary General of Metropolis, and Ms. Emilia Saiz, Secretary General of CGLU, all of whom delivered encouraging speeches.

Mr. Hu announced the opening of the award, which has seen tremendous participation in its previous six editions, attracting entries from cities and local governments in over 100 countries. The award aims to enhance urban governance capabilities by inviting cities worldwide to contribute innovative solutions and collaborate in building an inclusive and sustainable future.

Mr. Vaquer and Ms. Saiz acknowledged the significant role that the Guangzhou Award plays in promoting global urban innovation and mutual learning. They highlighted the achievements of the award in fostering cooperation and sustainable development among cities globally. The Guangzhou Award has become an essential platform for showcasing local governance experiences and advancing global sustainable development agendas, encouraging cities to submit their unique initiatives to tackle pressing global challenges like climate change and social equity.

During the ceremony, representatives from Guangzhou, CGLU, Metropolis, and the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries joined on stage, culminating in a moment where they unrolled a scroll symbolizing the global call for participation to officially launch the 7th Guangzhou Award.

First established in 2012 by the city of Guangzhou, CGLU, and Metropolis, the award aims to promote sustainable urban development and international cooperation by recognizing and disseminating innovative practices in urban governance. To date, six editions have garnered over 1,600 global initiatives, reinforcing the award's status as a vital worldwide platform for exchanging advanced governance experiences.

For detailed guidelines and updates on the award, interested parties can visit the official website at Guangzhou Award Official Site.

More About the Guangzhou Award

The Guangzhou Award is not only about acknowledgment but also about building a community that shares knowledge and innovations in urban governance. It emphasizes collaborative solutions that address the complexities of modern urban living, providing cities with the opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences and strategies.

This year’s focus continues to inspire cities to share their stories of resilience, adaptability, and innovative governance structures that contribute to a sustainable future. It's a call to all urban areas to showcase their proactive approaches in addressing issues such as climate change, inequality, and inclusive development.

Join the Dialogue

Cities are encouraged to participate, contributing their insights and challenges, thus forming a network of urban experiences that can inspire change and foster collaboration worldwide. The award not only aims to recognize but also to celebrate the diversity and creativity found in urban governance across the globe, promoting shared learning and advancements in making cities more sustainable and resilient.

Let this be an invitation to all urban centers to engage in a dialogue that could lead to significant progress and positive change in urban governance and innovation. The Guangzhou Award stands as a hopeful symbol for all cities aspiring to achieve meaningful transformations for a sustainable future.