On the first working day on October 24, the conference discussed the position and role of localities in the European Development Fund (FED), in partnership relations with the European Union, and in the Asian geography programme, as well as the role of mayors in accessing international financial resources.

Piere Schapira, senator of the European Parliament, said financial assistance to development programmes will amount to 35 million by 2013. This will be a great chance for developing member countries, who require the assistance and dynamism of city mayors.

Delegates listened to leaders from Hue city tell about the city’s experiences in accessing and using financial assistance in constructing public works, reducing poverty and preserving heritage sites.

To fulfil the Millennium Development Goals set by the United Nations, the AIMF is trying to raise the financial assistance level for developing countries. Last year, France spent 0.47 percent of its GDP on development projects.

On the sidelines of the conference, a number of bilateral agreements were signed between Hue local authorities and the Canadian delegation and two delegations from Jenes and Blois, France.

On the second working day, the conference discussed measures to preserve and enhance local heritage values with assistance from domestic and foreign partners.