Today, 71% of energy-origin CO2 is emitted from cities, and cities play a critical role as the implementing bodies of various low-carbon and climate resilient development initiatives. The objective of this session is to share common understanding on the conditions that enable cities to address climate change under international frameworks including promotion of city-to-city collaboration and how cities could enhance their competitiveness, and to accelerate the growth of urban economies while mitigating the risks brought about by climate change. The session first reviews the impact of climate change on cities focusing on situations in Asia, as well as how cities are voicing and gaining a stronger presence in recent international processes. The panel session will discuss why cities are important today under the international process and what the challenges and opportunities are, as well as looking at the enabling conditions to promote transformative actions for cities.