Urban centres are assuming a larger role in achieving our Sustainable Development Goals, something that is particularly true with climate change.

This was highlighted by Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while speaking at the 7th session of the Asia-Pacific Urban Forum in Penang, Malaysia this morning.

Bainimarama says the Asia-Pacific Urban Forum has recognised this reality since its inception adding that now in its seventh iteration, we are at a point in history where finding solutions are more urgent than ever.

He says as countries themselves are proving slow to change, and the international consensus seems increasingly elusive, the mobilisation of our urban centres are filling the void of nation-based leadership.

Bainimarama said while the Pacific Island States are experiencing some of the most rapid rates of urbanisation on the planet, the drivers of this change are common throughout the world.