Karatay Becomes Türkiye’s First Frontrunner City in Sustainable Development Goals

Karatay Municipality, representing Türkiye at the 7th Urban Economy Forum (UEF7) in Toronto, Canada, was recognized as the country’s first frontrunner city in Sustainable Development Goals.

Karatay Mayor Hasan Kılca highlighted the municipality’s projects focused on environmental sustainability and economic accessibility, sharing the district’s urban development vision on an international platform. This achievement was formalized through a cooperation agreement signed between Karatay Municipality and the Urban Economy Forum (UEF), with UEF President Reza Pourvaziry and Mayor Kılca signing the agreement.

The 7th Urban Economy Forum, held in Toronto, aims to strengthen intercity collaborations, reshape urban economies, and advance sustainable development efforts globally. Focusing on housing finance, efficient resource use, and building resilient cities, the forum stands out as one of the world’s leading urban economy platforms.

In his speech, Mayor Kılca emphasized that Karatay is Konya’s fastest-growing district. He shared details about the district’s urban transformation and housing projects and highlighted that Karatay is the largest central district of Konya in terms of land area.

Mayor Kılca also noted that Karatay includes historic settlement areas and said urban transformation projects are carried out with this sensitivity in mind. He stressed that their work goes beyond housing production, highlighting projects that harmonize with nature and include social spaces. “Developing projects that align with nature is as important as constructing housing. In this context, we strengthen public-private partnerships and support green finance solutions and environmentally friendly practices,” he said.

Expressing pride in Karatay receiving the title of Türkiye’s first frontrunner city, Mayor Kılca added, “The urban development initiatives we have implemented are now recognized as a global model. Karatay has become Türkiye’s first frontrunner city in Sustainable Development Goals, and this recognition also contributes to our country’s global vision.”