NEAT Working Group on
East Asian Cooperation for SDGs: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Seoul, 26 July 2024

Rationale
The achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stands as a crucial element inovercoming diverse global crises. Notably, as SDGs address various themes such as poverty, climatechange, ecosystems, and peace, there is a growing need for multidimensional cooperation to tackle
these complex challenges. While the execution of SDGs falls within the realm of individual countries,
it also necessitates international cooperation to complement and synergize efforts. In this context,
ASEAN Plus Three (APT) framework presents ample opportunities for cooperation considering thediverse conditions and aspirations of its member states.
Recognizing the imperative for coordinated action, the Network of East Asian Think-tanks(NEAT) has organized the working group in 2022 for further collaboration among APT member
countries for SDGs. The working group recommended the development of substantive cooperation
programs based on shared understanding and demand, the establishment of a multi-stakeholder SDGs
committee encompassing government bodies, local governments, businesses, and civil society, andthe organization of special sessions within the United Nations High-level Political Forum to conduct
joint country reviews.
To further strengthen institutional cooperation for SDGs, thereby ensuring continuity and followup on the discussed topics, NEAT Korea proposes a working group dedicated to exploring policy
recommendations for realizing sustainable cities and communities. Sustainable cities andcommunities, encapsulated within SDG Agenda 11, hold significance as arenas for addressing sharedgoals related to climate change, poverty, education, infrastructure and so on. By expanding
discussions on an East Asian community from a city-level perspective and seeking cooperation at theurban and community levels, this working group aims to enhance regional collaboration andcontribute to SDG implementation.
The working group on East Asian Cooperation for SDGs: Sustainable Cities and Communities
represents a significant step towards realizing the objectives of SDG Agenda 11 and fostering
regional cooperation. By harnessing the expertise of NEAT specialists and facilitating dialogue
among stakeholders, the working group aims to accelerate progress towards sustainable urban
development and community empowerment in the East Asian region.

1

Against the background described above, NEAT Korea organized the NEAT Working Group on
East Asian Cooperation for SDGs: Sustainable Cities and Communities. The working group met inSeoul on 26 June 2023 attended by representatives of 12 NEAT countries. This working group shared
the state of SDGs implementation focusing on agenda 11 encompassing sustainable cities andcommunities to identify functional challenges and crises we are facing and to discuss ways to enhancecooperation in the APT. The Working Group meeting reflected on the vision of the SDGs, identified
the nature of challenges faced by the APT in implementing its goals, and discussed responses andpolicies for sustainable cities and communities.

On the Discussion
The working group reviewed the state of implementation for Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) 11, which focuses on promoting sustainable cities and communities within the ASEAN Plus
Three (APT) member states. The working group highlighted the pressing need for robust national
policies and enhanced regional cooperation to foster urban sustainability and community
development. Given the diverse conditions across the member states, a one-size-fits-all solution is
not feasible. Thus, it is crucial for APT governments to recognize the significant role of local andsub-national governments in achieving SDGs and in fostering an East Asian community.
SDG Agenda 11 is pivotal as it addresses a range of critical global issues, including climate change,poverty, education, and infrastructure development. This agenda is particularly relevant to the East
Asian region, where urbanization and community development challenges are prominent. Expanding
the discussion to include city-level perspectives and fostering cooperation at the urban andcommunity levels are essential strategies for enhancing regional collaboration and advancing SDGs
implementation. By addressing these areas, the working group aims to improve regional synergy andcontribute effectively to the global sustainability agenda.
Cases and Regional Insights
Several case studies from APT member states provide valuable lessons for advancing sustainableurban development: Japan’s early experiences with non-Western developmental industrialization
offer insightful policy-making models. Its approach to industrialization and urbanization can serve
as a reference for other ASEAN Plus Three countries navigating similar challenges. Singapore’s caseas a sustainable city model for the Global South is noteworthy. The city-state has effectively
addressed issues such as water management, housing, health, and environmental sustainability
through a combination of national policies and international cooperation. The activities of ICLEILocal Governments for Sustainability illustrate the potential for establishing a network of cities
committed to sustainability. Such networks can facilitate the exchange of best practices and2

collaborative efforts among cities. Dagu-Danang City Cooperation was presented to exemplifies
successful city-to-city collaboration and serves as a potential model for other cities seeking toestablish similar networks. The engagement of students and youth in addressing community issues
in China and South Korea provides a valuable example of how local initiatives can be scaled up
regionally. Mandalay and Yangon cases highlight the need for focused attention at the national levelto address long-term development and urban challenges. The ongoing initiatives by ASEAN topromote urban sustainability are also recognized as significant contributions to advancing SDG 11.
Addressing Regional Challenges and Regional Cooperation
The APT member states face numerous challenges, including population decline, economic
instability, and environmental sustainability. The triple planetary crises—encompassing climatechange, pollution, and biodiversity loss—intensifies these issues, pushing ecosystems and marine life
to the brink of extinction. To address these challenges, it is vital to leverage local resources and foster
collaboration among cities. Strengthening the integration of climate mitigation and adaptation into
city planning and infrastructure investment is essential for guiding sustainable development efforts.
The introduction of a Perception-Based Livability Index may represent a crucial step towards
understanding and achieving SDG goals. Observations from the Philippines underscore theimportance of integrating smart technology and promoting inclusive growth. Digital platforms that
harmonize socio-ecological and economic connectivity are essential for sustainable urbandevelopment. Moreover, establishing sustainable monitoring mechanisms that utilize fourthindustrial technologies, such as artificial intelligence, is critical for informing policy and enhancing
governance.
Continued regional collaboration and knowledge exchange will be crucial for overcoming thesechallenges and achieving the vision of sustainable development in East Asia by 2030. Supportingcity-to-city cooperation and exchanges, including relevant sub-national government projects related
to sustainable development or climate investments, will enhance regional learning and collaboration.
Enhancing local and sub-national government capacity for sustainable development in East Asia
involves recognizing and empowering these entities as crucial drivers of sustainable development.
This includes implementing capacity building programs to strengthen their abilities in sustainableurban planning, natural resource management, and climate adaptation. Additionally, allocating
sustainable development funding to local governments ensures they have the necessary resources forinfrastructure projects, climate mitigation efforts, and community resilience initiatives. Integrating
local sustainable development goals (SDGs) into national policies and funding priorities further
promotes coherence and alignment across different levels of governance.

3Promoting city-to-city cooperation and knowledge-sharing in East Asia aims to foster
collaboration between cities and regions to exchange experiences, successes, and challenges. Thiseffort includes establishing peer learning networks where cities facing similar issues can share bestpractices and innovative solutions using digital and AI platforms. Facilitating exchanges of experts
and practitioners across borders helps promote cross-border learning and adaptation of successfulmodels. Encouraging joint projects on sustainable urbanization, environmental management, andeconomic development among participating cities leverages their comparative strengths andresources.
Strengthening multi-stakeholder engagement in sustainable urban development involves
enhancing the involvement of diverse stakeholders such as citizens, the private sector, academia, andcivil society in urban planning and development processes. This can be achieved throughimplementing mechanisms for participatory planning to ensure inclusive decision-making where
community voices are heard and integrated into development strategies and fostering collaborations
between local governments and the private sector to finance and implement sustainable infrastructure
projects through public-private partnerships. Establishing knowledge sharing platforms and forums
for multi-stakeholder dialogue promotes transparency and accountability in urban sustainability
governance.
Policy Recommendations
The participants reaffirmed the vision of the SDGs to root the idea of sustainable development
across generations—from elders to youth, from governments to communities, and from the region to
every corner of the nation. After acknowledging the state of SDG implementation, particularly
Agenda 11, in APT member states, the working group participants agreed that the recommendations
aim to leverage the capacities and resources of local and sub-national governments, promotecollaborative learning and innovation among cities, and ensure inclusive and participatory
approaches to sustainable urban development. By implementing these policies, cities andcommunities can more effectively address challenges related to population decline, aging
demographics, economic instability, and environmental sustainability.
Based on discussions on various issues related to the sustainability of cities and community
development, here are three policy recommendations:
To integrate these goals into national policies and regional cooperation frameworks and reaffirm
their commitment to implementing SDGs, particularly Agenda 11, which encompasses the goals
related to Sustainable Cities and Communities, the APT governments are required to1) Strengthen the capabilities of local and sub-national governments for sustainable development
through capacity-building and financial support. This should include urban planning, resource4management, climate adaptation, and improvements in housing and living conditions.
2) Promote city-to-city cooperation through regional networks to enhance learning, facilitate
exchange programs, and develop collaborative projects on urbanization, environmental
management, and economic development. Utilize fourth industrial technologies, including artificial
intelligence, digital platforms, and space technology, to support decision-making.
3) Strengthen multi-stakeholder engagement in urban planning and development processes. This
involves promoting inclusive decision-making, fostering public-private partnerships forinfrastructure projects, and establishing knowledge-sharing platforms. These measures aim toaddress challenges such as population decline, economic instability, and environmental
sustainability by leveraging local resources and fostering collaboration among cities.

The recommendations put forth by the working group emphasize leveraging the capacities andresources of local and sub-national governments, fostering collaborative learning among cities, andensuring inclusive and participatory approaches to sustainable urban development. By implementing
these policies, cities and communities can better address challenges related to population decline,
aging demographics, economic instability, and environmental sustainability. These measures areessential for achieving SDG 11 and advancing the broader vision of sustainable development in East
Asia by 2030.

5Annex I programme

PROGRAMMENEAT Working Group on" East Asian Cooperation for SDGs: Sustainable Cities and Communities "25~27 July 2024
(Times are at Seoul /GMT +9 hours)
Shilla Stay Gwanghwamun, Seoul

25 July 2024 Arrival of the participants

19:00-21:00 Welcome dinner (Ensung Restaurant)

26 July 2024
08:30-09:00

Registration

09:00 -10:30

Session I
Moderator : Prof. In-Won Hwang
NEAT Japan
NEAT Philippines
NEAT Indonesia
NEAT Singapore
NEAT Korea
NEAT Cambodia

10:30~10:45

Break Time

10:45~12:15~

Session 26

Moderator: Dr. Hyung-Jong KIM
NEAT Thailand
NEAT Vietnam
NEAT Malaysia
NEAT Laos
NEAT China
NEAT Myanmar

12:15-13:30

Lunch

13:30–15:00

Wrap-up and Closing27 July

Departure of the participants-The End of Working Group -7Annex II
List of Participants
Country

Name and InstitutionCambodia

Mr. Vibolseth Pen

China

Ministry of Foreign Affairsand International
Cooperation of Cambodia
Dr. Xue Xiaopeng
Northeast
Asian
DalianUniversity
Foreign Languages

Indonesia

Studies,ofDr. Hendricus Andy Simamarta
University of Indonesia

Japan

Dr. HAYASHI Mahito
Kinjo Gakuin University

Korea

Ms. SON Bonghee
ICLEI Korea
Ms. Kyoungeun Lee
ICLEI East Asia Secretariat
Prof. In-Won Hwang
Country Coordinator
Gyeongsang National University
Prof. Suhong ChaeSeoul National University
Dr. KIM Hyungjong
Yonsei University Mirae Campus

8LaosMs. Mimala CHANTHASONE
Institute of Foreign Affairs

Malaysia

Ms. Kieran Li Nair

MyanmarInstituteofInternational
Malaysia
H.E. Htin Lynn

StrategicandStudies(ISIS)

Myanmar Institute of Strategic andInternational Studies
Singapore

Dr. Lim Tai Wei

ThailandNational University of Singapore,
East Asian InstituteDr. Wijitbusaba Marome
Thammasat University

Philippines

Dr. Marife M. Ballesteros
Philippine Institute for Development
StudiesVietnamMr. Tu Anh Tuan
Institute for Foreign Policy andStrategicStudies,
Diplomatic
Academy of Viet Nam (DAV)Working Group Organizing Committee
Kyunghwan Boo(Seoul National University)Jungki CHO(Université Paris Cité)
Yuchan Seong(Seoul National University)

9Annex III concept paper

Concept Paper
NEAT Korea
Theme:
East Asian Cooperation for SDGs: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Background
The achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stands as a crucial element inovercoming diverse global crises. Notably, as SDGs address various themes such as poverty,
climate change, ecosystems, and peace, there is a growing need for multidimensional cooperation
to tackle these complex challenges. While the execution of SDGs falls within the realm ofindividual countries, it also necessitates international cooperation to complement and synergize
efforts. In this context, ASEAN Plus Three (APT) framework presents ample opportunities forcooperation considering the diverse conditions and aspirations of its member states.
Recognizing the imperative for coordinated action, the Network of East Asian Think-tanks(NEAT) has organized the Working Group in 2022 for further collaboration among APT member
countries for SDGs. The Working Group recommended the development of substantive cooperation
programs based on shared understanding and demand, the establishment of a multi-stakeholderSDGs committee encompassing government bodies, local governments, businesses, and civilsociety, and the organization of special sessions within the United Nations High-level Political
Forum to conduct joint country reviews.
To further strengthen institutional cooperation for SDGs, thereby ensuring continuity and followup on the discussed topics, NEAT Korea proposes a working group dedicated to exploring policy
recommendations for realizing sustainable cities and communities. Sustainable cities andcommunities, encapsulated within SDG Agenda 11, hold significance as arenas for addressing
shared goals related to climate change, poverty, education, and infrastructure. By expanding
discussions on the East Asian community from a city-level perspective and seeking cooperation at
the urban and community levels, this working group aims to enhance regional collaboration andcontribute to SDG implementation.

10

The proposed working group on East Asian Cooperation for SDGs: Sustainable Cities andCommunities represents a significant step towards realizing the objectives of SDG Agenda 11 andfostering regional cooperation. By harnessing the expertise of NEAT specialists and facilitating
dialogue among stakeholders, we aim to accelerate progress towards sustainable urban
development and community empowerment in the East Asian region. We look forward to the active
participation and support of all APT member countries in this endeavor.

Role of NEAT Specialists
NEAT Korea will convene a Working Group Meeting on East Asian Cooperation for SDGs:
Sustainable Cities and Communities in Seoul in July 2024. Experts specializing in city andcommunity development will be invited to participate, their insights invaluable for enriching joint
research endeavors. The outcomes of this meeting will be presented and deliberated upon at the2024 NEAT Conference of Coordinator Meeting (CCM).

Topics and Objectives for Discussion
The working group will focus on the following objectives:✓

Identifying contemporary challenges faced by cities and communities in the East Asianregion.

✓Evaluating the progress of cities and communities in realizing SDGs.

✓Establishing a network of cities and communities committed to SDG implementation.

To achieve these objectives, the working group will:✓Address issues arising from evolving regional and global dynamics amid emerging
challenges.

✓Facilitate knowledge-sharing on best practices for SDGs implementation among cities andcommunities in East Asia.

✓Propose strategic responses and policies to enhance APT functional cooperation andvisibility.

Schedule of WG✓✓✓

Nomination of the participant by 5 July 2024
Submission of paper by 19 July 2024
Working Group on 26 July 202411