The online policy debate held by the Guangzhou UCLG 2020 World Council takes place in Guangzhou on Nov 13. [Photo/WeChat account: GZWS411665430]

The Guangzhou UCLG 2020 World Council held an online policy debate themed around global recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic in Guangzhou on Nov 13, attracting attendees from home and abroad in online and offline venues.

"Local governments cannot achieve globalization and urbanization goals as the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified regional inequality. So all parties should team up for mutual development," said UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who participated in the policy debate online.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, director general of the World Health Organization, said that cities and local governments are "guardians of a green, health, and sustainable society." He added that cities around the world should devote efforts in promoting more environmental-friendly, livable, and healthy lifestyles after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mohamed Boudra, mayor of Al Hoceima, Morocco and president of UCLG, noted that UCLG has been active in establishing platforms to provide support for cities in need of economic recovery.

Hu Hong, vice mayor of Guangzhou, said that Guangzhou has taken the initiative in offering help and support for expats in the city impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as in providing convenience for transnational companies, organizations, and schools.

Hu added that the city will continue to follow up on global pandemic situations to make more contributions to the global fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.