The World Bank Group (WBG) and the Government of Japan have been collaborating since 2004 in delivering knowledge, learning and capacity building services through the Tokyo Development Learning Center (TDLC), drawing on expertise from various institutions and partners in Japan. TDLC launched its new operational phase “Phase 3” on July 1, 2015, after completing the renovation of information and communications technology facilities. Key features of the Phase 3 will include closer links to and integration with WBG’s operational programs.
In recognition of the important role of cities as engines of economic growth and of the world-class and often unique experience offered by a number of Japanese cities, the World Bank plans to extend its collaboration through the TDLC partnership to city and municipal level. Through a new City Partnership Program, the WBG will collaborate with selected cities in Japan to document and share good practice experience and solutions for sustainable and inclusive development. The WBG will also facilitate and support provision of advice and technical assistance, drawing on expertise from Japanese cities, to help its clients address challenges of inclusive and sustainable urban development.
The seminar provided an opportunity for sharing knowledge about the key policy, infrastructure and institutional/capacity building challenges facing cities in developing countries and on avenues for collaboration.
Program:
Opening Remarks
Yasusuke Tsukagoshi, Special Representative, Japan, World Bank Group
Tadashi Yokoyama, Director of the Development Institutions Division, International Bureau, Ministry of Finance
Presentation
Barjor Mehta, Global Lead on Municipal Management, Governance and Finance, World Bank Group
Victor Vergara, Lead Urban Specialist, World Bank Group
Commentary
Shinichi Fukunaga, Director, International Affairs Office, General Affairs Division City Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism
Toshiyuki Iwama, Executive Technical Advisor to the Director General, Infrastructure and Peacebuilding Department, Japan International Cooperation Agency
Moderator
Philip Karp, Principal Knowledge Management Officer
Presentation: