A major international forum opened on Wednesday in Nanjing, the historic riverfront capital of Jiangsu Province, bringing together mayors and representatives from 10 countries. The event, known as the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing, centers on the theme “Flowing Rivers, Converging Future,” reflecting both the city’s waterfront identity and its ambition to promote global cooperation on sustainable urban development.
The forum aims to create a platform where city leaders can exchange ideas, discuss emerging challenges and explore new approaches to urban governance. Delegates from Brunei, Egypt, Germany, Malaysia, China and several other countries will participate in a series of conversations on diverse topics, including cultural preservation, ecological protection and the growing role of smart-city technologies in modern governance.
Over the three day gathering, participants will also be invited to visit local universities, scenic areas along the Yangtze River and some of Nanjing’s most iconic cultural sites. These visits are intended to give guests an in depth look at how the city balances its rich heritage with a fast evolving modern identity. One highlight is Nanjing’s ancient city wall, which has stood for more than six centuries and remains one of the best preserved structures of its kind in China.
After touring the wall, Gan Tian Loo, chairman of the working committee for the historic urban area of Malacca in Malaysia, expressed deep appreciation for the engineering skill and cultural insight of ancient Chinese builders. He noted that Nanjing is increasingly appealing to young Malaysians due to its blend of history, culture and contemporary creativity. Gan said he hopes this dialogue will help deepen cooperation between Malacca and Nanjing in tourism, trade, education and broader economic ties.
Li Zhongjun, Nanjing’s acting mayor, said the forum aims to present Chinese ideas and experiences that can help cities address new development challenges. He emphasized that Nanjing is committed to expanding exchanges with global cities and strengthening collaboration in science, technology, business and trade.
China’s approach to urban governance is also going through a major evolution. The older mindset of rapid expansion is gradually giving way to a more precise, people centered model often described as “needlework style” renewal. Rather than demolishing and rebuilding large areas, cities are focusing on improving existing neighborhoods through targeted upgrades, better services and more functional public spaces that enhance everyday life.
Shanghai offers a notable example of this shift. The city is working to protect and renew its well known lilong neighborhoods, which are dense lane-house communities that hold deep historical and cultural value. Guided by an urban renewal ordinance, Shanghai emphasizes repair, retention and reuse. Efforts include structural safety improvements, careful facade restorations, upgraded drainage and fire safety systems, and many small scale adjustments that make streets more welcoming.
This people oriented renewal also helps preserve the rhythm of daily life. By controlling excessive commercial development and supporting useful small businesses, the city encourages balanced streets where culture, community and everyday convenience coexist. Areas such as Yuyuan Road and Sinan Road illustrate how small gardens, improved crossings, comfortable seating and thoughtful design can turn old neighborhoods into vibrant, walkable and sociable spaces once again.
