January 9, 2024, Balikesir, Turkey

CIFAL Lebanon visited the SDG Cities Balikesir Hub in Turkey. The visit allowed CIFAL Lebanon and the SDG Cities Balikesir Hub to explore potential collaborations for transformative learning programs. It also provided an opportunity for both parties to exchange insights on their respective activities driven by the Sustainable Development Goals.

During this visit, representatives from CIFAL Lebanon engaged in productive discussions with key figures, including Dr. Rahmi Melih Cortuk of the Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality, Volkan Karateke of the Environmental Protection and Control Department, and N. Elif Binici of the Strategy Development Department. These discussions provided CIFAL Lebanon with valuable insights into the formation and initiatives of the SDG Cities Balikesir Hub.

CIFAL Lebanon, hosted by the Global CEO Alliance, serves as a dynamic hub for capacity-building in Lebanon and beyond. Through tailored workshops, webinars, and short-long term skill-building courses, the center empowers local communities and responds to sustainable economic development needs. Its inclusive approach, combining online and in-person training, ensures accessible learning opportunities for all.

The recent visit underscores CIFAL Lebanon's commitment to regional cooperation and exploring avenues for collaboration. The SDG Cities Balikesir Hub, a testament to Turkey's dedication to a sustainable and resilient future, was established to advance the SDG Cities Global Initiative which aims to empower cities in their progress towards the SDGs. The hub provides essential tools and specialized technical support while fostering key partnerships to contribute meaningfully to the global sustainability agenda. 

CIFAL Lebanon and the SDG Cities Balikesir Hub’s shared vision of advancing a sustainable future paves the way for promising collaborations that will shape prosperous and resilient cities worldwide.

To learn more about CIFAL Lebanon, visit: cifal-lebanon.com

To learn more about SDG Cities Global Initiative, visit: sdg-cities.org