San Juan to host Ibero-American Capital Cities meeting on social issues

San Juan, Puerto Rico, is set to host the Second Ibero-American Meeting of the Union of Ibero-American Capital Cities (UCCI) from July 22 to 24. Mayor Miguel A. Romero announced that the event will convene members from 12 countries, underscoring San Juan's role in fostering dialogue on critical urban challenges.

Romero expressed that hosting this significant gathering is both an honor and a responsibility, emphasizing San Juan's proven ability to lead transformative initiatives by prioritizing its citizens. The meeting will include representatives from cities such as Asunción, Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Mexico City, Montevideo, Santiago, Quito, San José, San Salvador, Santo Domingo, São Paulo, and Tegucigalpa.

Discussions will focus on pressing issues including homelessness, the aging of populations, demographic shifts, and the development of care models aimed at improving the quality of life for vulnerable groups. The agenda features an opening ceremony, a keynote address, and dialogue sessions addressing the challenges and opportunities cities face in tackling homelessness.

An immersive exhibition, 'Homeless, With History: A Journey Between Life and Art,' will showcase life stories and resilience of participants in municipal programs through various artistic expressions. On July 23, San Juan will present its social intervention model for enhancing services for the elderly and expanding opportunities for vulnerable individuals. Delegates will visit key municipal facilities to observe these programs firsthand.

The meeting will also work towards drafting the 'Social Declaration of San Juan,' a document outlining agreements and commitments to advance inclusive social policies and strengthen cooperation among UCCI member cities. The delegates will conclude their visit with a tour of the 'Route of the 500 Years,' exploring San Juan's rich historical, architectural, and cultural heritage. Mayor Romero concluded by stating that despite facing different realities, the participating cities share a common commitment to building communities where no one is left behind.