The annual summit discussed the role of global cities in promoting business innovation, entrepreneurship, and job growth, as well as optimal solutions for trading and creating jobs in an increasingly competitive global environment. It also encouraged cities to learn from each other's experiences to promote economic development, creativity and cultural diversification.

The first summit was held in New York City in 2003, with ten subsequent annual summits on developing international tourism, dealing with the challenges of tourism, crime, and sustainable development, strategies for public arts, as well as city management in a democratic society, the role of cities in dealing with climate change, generating jobs, developing labour forces, medical policies, and education.

At this year’s meeting, themed “Business Innovation”, city mayors discussed issues related to economic reform in the 21^st century and creating private-public partnerships (PPPs) to promote trade and generate jobs.

The HCM City delegation launched tourism promotions at the event to attract more visitors to Vietnam.