İzmir advances urban diplomacy and local redevelopment plans

İzmir is advancing its international urban diplomacy and local urban transformation initiatives. Representing Mayor Cemil Tugay, Deputy Secretary General Prof. Dr. Pınar Okyay and specialist Burak Erdinç participated in several high-level summits in the United States, including the U20 Mayors Summit in New York, the Alliance for Local Leaders International (ALLIES) meeting, and the Climate Mobility Summit.

During these international forums, İzmir shared its expertise in food policy and accessibility. The municipality highlighted its food ecosystem, which includes local production support, cooperatives, and the İZMAR network of 25 stores, alongside social services such as school meals and hot meal deliveries for the elderly. These efforts are integrated into a broader Agricultural Master Plan.

Domestically, the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality has revised the Ballıkuyu Urban Transformation and Development Project. Led by Dr. Cemil Tugay, the new plan prioritizes preserving the historical silhouette of Kadifekale. The revised approach moves away from high-density construction in favor of low-density, terrace-style housing that adapts to the area's topography. The project aims to reduce disaster risks through on-site transformation while maintaining the region's unique cultural character. Reconciliation talks with local property owners are currently underway.