Cities across Asia-Pacific are facing a period of rapid change. From climate pressures and digital transformation to shifting economic realities, local governments stand at the front lines of delivering practical solutions for their communities. Against this backdrop, the 2026 UCLG ASPAC Council will convene in Haikou, Hainan Province, China, from 28 to 30 October 2026 under the theme “Leveraging the Free Trade Port, Collaboratively Building a Green, Smart, and Inclusive Future for Asia-Pacific Cities.”
The three-day gathering will bring together approximately 300 international and domestic participants from more than 14 countries. Mayors, local government leaders, strategic partners, and urban practitioners will join forces to exchange frontline experiences, tackle emerging trends, and forge pathways toward urban resilience and well-being.
The Council Meeting serves as a vital anchor for members to review achievements, establish upcoming priorities, and translate the UCLG ASPAC Manifesto 2026-2030 into actionable local governance strategy.
Haikou provides an inspiring backdrop for these dialogues. As the capital of Hainan Province and the gateway to the Hainan Free Trade Port, the city offers delegates a firsthand look at how open trade, ecological commitment, and regional connectivity can spur local prosperity.
Alongside the statutory proceedings, a series of thematic sessions will tackle core issues shaping urban living today. Interactive panels on sustainable economic development, cultural cooperation, youth engagement, and the blue economy will enable members to translate localized successes into scalable ideas for their home cities.
Delegates will also experience Haikou’s ecological character directly, participating in a tree-planting activity at Fengxiang Wetland Park alongside curated waterfront and heritage tours.
As local authorities navigate an increasingly complex urban landscape, the 2026 UCLG ASPAC Council offers a welcoming space to reconnect, share lessons, and reaffirm a collective commitment to local action. By uniting leaders from across Asia-Pacific, the meeting promises to turn shared ideas into lasting impact for communities throughout the region.
For more comprehensive information on the 2026 UCLG ASPAC Council Meeting, please visit the UCLG ASPAC Connect website, where you can access the event schedule, programme book, logistical notes, and other relevant materials to support your participation and stay informed about all meeting activities and arrangements.
