Urban development ministers from the G7 nations are holding two-day talks in the western Japanese city of Takamatsu.

The event began Saturday and discussion themes included climate change and natural disasters. The ministers also confirmed they will strengthen cooperation in support of the reconstruction of Ukraine.

Japan's land minister Saito Tetsuo is chairing the meeting. He said the world is facing climate change, biodiversity loss and an energy crisis. He added cities where population and infrastructure are concentrated may find these challenges especially difficult.

He also said he hopes the meeting will discuss effective measures to deal with these challenges, and how central and local governments can work together with concerned parties.

In the morning session that focused on climate change, participants shared their concern that natural disasters can adversely affect people's lives and infrastructure.

They also exchanged opinions on securing green spaces and decarbonizing buildings to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from cities.

The participants also agreed to work together to help the Ukraine restore its infrastructure, and recognized the importance of utilizing each member state's knowledge and involvement from the planning stage.

A joint statement is expected to be released after the meeting closes on Sunday.