UNITED NATIONS -- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday highlighted the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping urban futures, and called for empowering them to accelerate global sustainable development progress.

In his message to mark World Cities Day, which is observed annually on Oct 31, Guterres said, "We recognize the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping urban futures."

He underscored that with more than half of the world's population and 70 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, cities are at the forefront of the climate crisis. And they need the energy and vision of youth leading the charge for change.

"From grassroots movements to innovation labs, young people are pushing for ambitious climate action," Guterres noted, adding that they are championing renewable energy integration, green jobs, clean public transportation, and climate adaptation measures, contributing to shape sustainable cities where everyone can thrive.

He called for nations to amplify voices of youth, invest in their ideas, and promote their meaningful participation in urban decision-making, stressing, "By empowering young people, we can accelerate climate action and drive global progress for the Sustainable Development Goals."

"As we mark World Cities Day, let us celebrate the power of youth to build green, resilient and inclusive cities that meet the needs and aspirations of future generations," the UN chief said.

The World Cities Day was proposed by the Chinese government in the Shanghai Declaration of the World Expo 2010. The UN General Assembly later designated Oct 31 as World Cities Day by a resolution, aiming to raise awareness of the imperative to make cities more sustainable, accessible, and livable.