Al-Dhahiriya Mayor Eng. Ali Abbas Al-Awaisa Represents Palestine at the UCLG-MEWA Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum in Konya, Türkiye
As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the presence of Palestinian municipalities on regional and international platforms, Eng. Ali Abbas Al-Awaisa, Mayor of Al-Dhahiriya, participated in the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum organized by the United Cities and Local Governments Middle East and West Asia (UCLG-MEWA) in Konya, Türkiye. The forum brought together mayors, policymakers, experts, and representatives of international and regional organizations to exchange experiences and explore innovative approaches to local development.
During the forum, Eng. Al-Awaisa presented a working paper entitled "Strengthening Local Innovation Ecosystems and the Role of Municipalities in Sustainable Development." In his presentation, he emphasized the importance of adopting innovation-driven policies to improve municipal services, support entrepreneurship, stimulate local economic growth, and enhance the ability of communities to address development challenges.
He highlighted that municipalities today play a role far beyond the provision of basic public services. They have become key drivers of economic and social development by creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurs, establishing strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, the private sector, and international organizations, and promoting initiatives that generate sustainable employment opportunities while empowering youth and women.
Eng. Al-Awaisa also addressed the major challenges facing Palestinian municipalities, particularly the limited financial and institutional resources and the exceptional circumstances under which they operate. He noted that, despite these challenges, Al-Dhahiriya Municipality continues to implement innovative development initiatives, modernize municipal services, and promote a governance model based on innovation, community engagement, and strategic partnerships.
He further called for expanding cooperation among municipalities across the region, encouraging the exchange of successful experiences and best practices, and attracting development and investment projects that improve the quality of public services and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Mayor concluded by stressing that Al-Dhahiriya Municipality remains committed to strengthening its international engagement, learning from global best practices in local governance and innovation, and building effective partnerships that support sustainable development and improve the quality of life for the residents of Al-Dhahiriya.
