At the 2025 International Mayors Forum, held in Toyota City, Japan, ICLEI Japan Chair Kazuhiko Takemoto delivered remarks highlighting the critical role of local governments in advancing sustainable development and accelerating climate action.

This Forum serves as an international platform where mayors and local government representatives from around the world gather approximately once a year to engage in policy dialogue and knowledge sharing on key issues related to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In his speech, Chair Takemoto emphasized that while cities face a wide range of challenges, including poverty, health, the environment, and employment, they also possess strong implementation capacity and problem-solving abilities. He stressed that local-level action, or “localization,” is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He further highlighted that ICLEI, as a network of over 2,500 local and regional governments across more than 125 countries, plays a key role in fostering city-to-city collaboration and amplifying the voice of local governments in international policymaking. ICLEI’s work is guided by five key pathways: zero emission, nature-based, equitable, resilient, and circular development.

In addition, he referred to ICLEI’s engagement in major international processes such as the UNFCCC, the CBD, and the Urban 7 (U7)—an engagement group under the G7 framework—as well as its contributions to discussions related to the IPCC.

The content of his presentation has also been featured in the Forum’s official report (the English version will be published soon), drawing international attention as an example of Japan’s advanced initiatives.

ICLEI Japan will continue to leverage its domestic and international networks to promote collaboration toward a decarbonized and sustainable future.