Delegates of CITYNET 2017 on Colombo City Tour

Delegates of 2017 CityNet Congress representing 138 member cities experienced Sri Lanka’s premier city, Colombo, on board the Colombo City Tour, a venture by Sri Lanka Tourism and Ebert Silva Holidays recently.

CityNet is the largest association of urban stakeholders committed to sustainable development in the Asia Pacific region. Established in 1987 with the support of UNESCAP, UNDP and UN-Habitat, the Network of cities has grown to include 138 municipalities, NGOs, private companies and research centres.

The delegates had pleasant rides across the City of Colombo on 3 open deck double deckers viewing its architectural heritage with majestic remnants of colonial architecture. Fine examples of religious and cultural harmony was seen in the heart of the city where Buddhist temples are located side by side churches, kovils and mosques in a vibrant city that makes a colourful tapestry of many races and faiths.

An interesting stop at the Gangarama temple and Chapter House in the heart of the city and a visit to the Independence Memorial gave further insight to the delegates of the rich and unique culture and heritage of the island.

On 5-8 November, CityNet held The CityNet Congress ‘Our City, Our Future: Sharing Local Solutions for Sustainable Development’, in Colombo Sri Lanka. The congress, an event, held every four years, consists of legislative meetings, mayors’ forums, international seminars and technical visits.

The inauguration ceremony of the CityNet Congress was held under the patronage of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the B. The Congress takes place every four year and this year it celebrated its 30th anniversary. The CMC has been a founder member since 1987 and was the host of CITYNET 2017 from 5 to 8 November. The Congress comprised over 138 member cities from 22 countries from the Asia Pacific Region.