United Nations in China

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in China:

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Press Release

27 January 2026

UN and China Launch New Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2026–2030)

Jiang Chenghua, Deputy China International Trade Representative of MOFCOM, highlighted that over the past five years, China and UN agencies worked together to overcome significant global and regional challenges, ensuring the effective implementation of the previous UNSDCF. He noted that both sides have jointly identified priority areas for the new cycle and reached consensus on a clear roadmap for future collaboration. Jiang expressed hope that the UN and China will fully implement the new Framework, advance practical cooperation aligned with the 15th Five–Year Plan support Chinese modernization, share China’s development experience, and contribute to the common progress of Global South countries.“Today’s meeting is a milestone that reflects our shared commitment to accelerating the ‘last mile’ of the SDGs. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Chinese government and to all UN agencies for the collective efforts that brought us to this moment. Building on the achievements of the previous cycle, this new Framework aligns closely with China’s 15th Five–Year Plan,” said Siddharth Chatterjee, UN Resident Coordinator in China. He underscored that the UN Country Team stands ready to continue working closely with China to uphold multilateralism, strengthen cooperation under the new UNSDCF, deepen South-South cooperation, and jointly advance the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.The meeting brought together representatives from 18 UN agencies and 21 Chinese government ministries and institutions. Both sides exchanged views on the UNSDCF’s priority areas, implementation challenges, and emerging opportunities.As the highest governing body for UNSDCF implementation in China, the JSC will continue to provide strategic direction and oversight to ensure impactful, coherent, and innovative cooperation during the 2026–2030 cycle.

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Press Release

09 December 2025

UNAIDS China Launches 30-Year Commemorative Publication

Beijing, 9 December 2025 — As part of global commemorations for World AIDS Day 2025, held under the theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response”, the United Nations in China and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) convened partners, former leaders, government counterparts, and community representatives for the launch of a landmark publication: Catalyst, Convenor and Connector for Change: UNAIDS Role in Supporting China’s AIDS Response. This publication offers an account of UNAIDS’ 30-year engagement in China—tracing key milestones, documenting its catalytic and convening role, and highlighting how UNAIDS supported China’s evolving AIDS response from early political mobilization to today’s dual focus on domestic priorities and global health cooperation.Opening the event, Amakobe Sande, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative and former UNAIDS Country Director to China, delivered remarks on behalf of Siddharth Chatterjee, the UN Resident Coordinator in China, underscoring the historical importance of the launch: “This is the first publication to capture the collective work of the UN system on HIV in China—more than a record of the past, it is a testament to three decades of partnership, progress, and purpose.” In his opening remarks, Xia Gang, the Vice Administrator of National Disease Control and Prevention Administration of China (NDCPA), highlighted: For 40 years, China has made remarkable progress in AIDS response. These achievements reflect China’s commitment to prioritizing people’s health and advancing the Healthy China initiative. They also bear the imprint of three decades of close collaboration between China, UNAIDS, and UN partners. He added that “China stands ready to further deepen its cooperation with UNAIDS and other international partners, jointly advance the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, and actively promote the building of a global community of health for all”. Mahesh Mahalingam, the UNAIDS Chief of Staff, delivered a keynote video speech on behalf of Winnie Byanyima, the UNAIDS Executive Director and the UN Under-Secretary-General, emphasizing the relevance of this publication at a pivotal moment: “Ending AIDS is a matter of justice, dignity and inclusion. Going the last mile means ensuring that no one is left behind”. The event featured an expanded panel bringing together former and current UNAIDS leaders, UN Cosponsors, national counterparts, and community representatives. Discussions highlighted first-hand perspectives from those who shaped—and were shaped by—three decades of AIDS response in China, while exploring pivotal turning points in China–UNAIDS collaboration, the evolution of national and multisectoral strategies, and the indispensable role of communities in driving progress. Panelists highlighted UNAIDS’ convening power in strengthening AIDS response, bridging government and civil society, and advancing global reporting and learning. They also underscored how China’s transformation from an early recipient of external support to a proactive contributor in global health was shaped by strategic partnerships and shared commitment. Closing the event, Erasmus Morah, Director and Representative of the UNAIDS Office in China, called for continued unity and global solidarity across all partners, highlighting China’s leadership within the framework of South-South Cooperation (SSC). He noted that UNAIDS’ three decades in China have exemplified true partnership—where leadership and companionship advanced hand in hand. While milestones mark progress, he emphasized that the stories we tell hold lasting power, capturing what statistics alone cannot.Finally, Dr. Morah concluded: "We hope this book and the story of HIV in China become a reference of international significance—demonstrating the UN’s value addition and contributing to global lessons on pandemic preparedness. May it inspire resilience, solidarity, and victory in the years ahead." Bringing together over 80 participants, the event marked the first time a UN agency in China has systematically documented three decades of partnership, innovation, and national progress in the AIDS response.

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Press Release

31 October 2024

UN marks 45 years in China with recent celebration

UN Day, observed on 24 October, marks the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter, with the day celebrated each year as an opportunity to reaffirm the purposes and principles of the UN Charter that have guided the Organization and the international community for the past 79 years.Under the theme “Aspire, Connect, Transform for our Common Future”, this year’s celebration of UN Day also coincides with the 45th anniversary of the UN’s development presence in China, with the event seeking to spark dialogue on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reinforce the value of international cooperation and multilateralism, demonstrating the convening power of the UN across its Three Pillars of peace and security, human rights and development.During a global video message played at the event, UN Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, said, “Hope requires all countries working as one. Hope requires the United Nations. On United Nations Day, I call on all countries to keep this beacon for the world, and its ideals, shining.” Representatives of the UN in China took to the stage, while the Resident Coordinator used his remarks to draw attention to the evolving role of the UN in China and call for action on the recently adopted Pact for the Future, as well as for accelerated global progress on the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. During his remarks at the event, UN Resident Coordinator in China, Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee, said, “Achieving the 2030 Agenda is impossible without China's leadership or with China acting alone. As we wrap up the current Cooperation Framework next year and begin planning a new one for 2026-2030, our priorities will continue to align with our values, norms, and standards in contributing to the country’s new 5-year development plan.” Representatives of the Government of China, led by Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Mr. Miao Deyu, who served as the Guest of Honour, also joined the event, highlighting China’s increasing support for the Organization’s role in international affairs, particularly in the context of the recent 75th Anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.During his remarks at the event, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Mr. Miao Deyu, said, “During the historical process of China’s reform and opening up, UN development agencies in China have made important contributions to promoting China’s modernization and China’s cooperation with the UN.” Given its 45th anniversary, a video was screened at the event, which saw the Resident Coordinator discuss the UN’s work in China to help the country achieve the SDGs and priorities for the years ahead, while the publications, reports and other materials from UN entities were made available to guests at a display area at the venue, highlighting their efforts to leave no one behind. Following the screening of the video, several performances fusing elements of Eastern and Western culture took place, including a traditional Chinese theatrical representation of ‘Face Changing’, a duet of ‘Libertango’, and a Peking Opera performance featuring children from the Daystar Academy. The UN in China gratefully acknowledges the efforts of its supporting partners, including the strong support from North Way Cultural Exchange, and thanks all guests for their attendance at this year’s UN Day event.

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03 April 2025

Gearing Up For The Future: Working For A Sustainable Tomorrow

The United Nations in China under the leadership of the Resident Coordinator laid the groundwork for a sustainable future with a dynamic series of Pre-Summit of the Future events throughout 2024. These events addressed themes such as AI governance, youth empowerment, climate action, and sustainable investments, raising awareness and showcasing China's role in tackling global challenges. In the lead-up to the Summit in September 2024, the UN in China hosted eight events across China and the region, focusing on critical Summit themes. These included dialogues, workshops and forums on Sustainable Development; Financing for Development; Science, Technology, and Innovation; Transforming Global Governance; as well as Youth and Future Generations. The journey began in April with a dialogue in Bangkok on accelerating progress toward the SDGs, and an event in Macau exploring the role of AI. In May, Hunan Province hosted a meeting on the importance of multilateral institutions, and a collaborative event with Kenya's Embassy in China looked at climate change. June's event in Beijing, with China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized strategies to fast-track global sustainable development. August featured three significant events: the World Youth Development Forum in Beijing, discussions in Hong Kong on climate change, public health and AI, and an event in Shenzhen exploring ESG investments and digital technologies. These events brought together diverse participants, fostering dialogues and collaborations. Summaries from all events were shared with the Summit Secretariat, ensuring China's contributions played a significant role in global discussions. The UN in China is now preparing to implement the outcomes of the Pact for the Future. By bringing diverse voices to the table, the UN in China has set the tone for global solidarity and collective action, remaining committed to uniting people to address shared challenges.Bringing together diverse participants, fostering dialogues and strengthening collaboration, the UN in China has set the tone for global solidarity and collective actions to build a greener, more equitable, and prosperous future.

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17 January 2026

UN-Habitat China Future Cities Council Meeting 2026 Convenes in Jinhua, Zhejiang

On January 17, the UN-Habitat China Future Cities Council (CFCC) Meeting 2026, themed "Artificial Intelligence and Cities," was grandly convened in Jinhua, Zhejiang. The meeting aimed to delve into cutting-edge topics and practical pathways for AI-driven urban sustainable development. It attracted nearly 150 distinguished guests from UN-Habitat, municipal governments, academia, technology enterprises, and media, to shape a shared vision for tomorrow's cities.The meeting centered on in-depth discussions aimed at leveraging digital technology to advance urban sustainable development. Participants universally agreed that Artificial Intelligence is integrating into urban governance, economy, society, and ecology with unprecedented depth and breadth, injecting powerful technological momentum into the global achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Opening and Exhibition: Building Consensus, Envisioning the Future
The meeting kicked off with guests immersed in the CFCC Annual Achievements Exhibition, where they explored the flagship report Future Cities Advisory Outlook (FCAO) 2025: AI and Cities and examined innovative outcomes from city and enterprise cases in AI and sustainable city development. A compelling promotional video then showcased Jinhua’s dynamic journey as an ancient city embracing digital transformation and future-ready development. The opening segment concluded with a congratulatory video message from Anacláudia Rossbach, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat, commending the insights presented in the report. In his opening remarks, Bruno Dercon, Senior Human Settlements Officer, UN-Habitat Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, congratulated the meeting. He emphasized that addressing urbanization challenges in the Asia-Pacific region requires building a responsible and inclusive AI governance framework to ensure technology truly serves sustainable development. He affirmed that this meeting and the FCAO 2025 provide crucial guidance in this regard, stressing that people-centered and ethical AI application is the right direction for urban transformation.
Zhang Zhenshan, Senior Advisor, UN-Habitat China Office, reviewed the history of CFCC's cooperation with Chinese cities and enterprises. He highlighted that the latest CFCC report, FCAO2025 centered on "AI and Cities," summarizes the pathway for Chinese cities' smart transition towards "optimization of existing urban stock," offering a Chinese approach to global urbanization.Wang Shi, Chair of CFCC and Chairman of Vanke Foundation, drew on his practical experience to share his vision for urban development. He emphasized that cities should function as sustainable living organisms, calling for focused efforts in areas such as AI governance and zero‑carbon community building. These initiatives, he noted, aim to provide replicable Chinese solutions to support urban transformation worldwide. Li Binfeng, Member of the Standing Committee of the Jinhua Municipal Committee of the CPC and Director of the Publicity Department, introduced Jinhua as an economically dynamic and culturally rich city in the heart of the Yangtze River Delta. He highlighted Jinhua’s dedication to integrating AI into urban governance and new industrialization, with the goal of building a distinctive, people-centered smart city driven by digital innovation.
Academician Forum: Sharing Frontier Insights and Guiding Future Development
During the Academician Forum, Wang Jian — Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering (CAE), Director of Zhejiang Lab, Founder of Alibaba Cloud, and Initiator of the Shanghai Haina Academy of Engineering — highlighted data as a new form of natural resource in the digital age. He emphasized that in addressing urban resource consumption challenges, artificial intelligence offers a vital pathway to optimize allocation and advance toward the sustainable vision of “using fewer resources to create a better life.”Zheng Qinghua, Academician of CAE, and Secretary of the Party Committee of Tongji University emphasized that artificial intelligence is emerging as a “new quality productive force” driving social transformation—a milestone in human civilization comparable to the advent of language, writing, and printing. He stressed that building people‑centered future cities requires addressing the governance challenges posed by AI while guiding its evolution toward a form of behavioral intelligence in which “knowledge and action are truly integrated.”Wu Zhiqiang，Academician of CAE, and Professor of Tongji University observed that while technology defines an era, it is values that truly reshape it. Against the backdrop of technological advancement continuously transforming cities, he outlined three core dimensions of intelligent urban development: enabling urban systems to effectively perceive, learn, and facilitate multi-stakeholder decision-making, thereby paving the way toward a smarter future of governance.Report Launch: Shared Wisdom Charting the Future
The meeting featured the launch of two pivotal reports. Future Cities Advisory Outlook 2025: AI and Cities was presented by the UN‑Habitat China Office, along with the report’s report writing expert group, CFCC Chair, and representative of the Vice Chair. The report addresses a timely question: where will artificial intelligence lead our cities, and how can it be harnessed to advance urban sustainability? To this, the report provides a clear answer: to create a better life with fewer resources. Secondly, it presents for the first time a panoramic technology map of “AI + Cities,” offering an important reference for cities worldwide to bridge the technological gap between AI applications and sustainable development goals. Third, it puts forward for the first time a roadmap for “AI + Cities,” spanning value alignment, data infrastructure, scenario-driven applications, and emergent intelligence. Covering different stages of development, this roadmap provides cities with actionable, practical pathways for implementation.Also unveiled was the report Beijing Future Science City Sustainable Development Practice: Innovations and Achievements, co‑developed by UN‑Habitat, Beijing Future Science City, and Beijing Yudao Shifang. The study delves into 15 years of practice across seven key domains—from sustainable planning to green infrastructure—capturing milestone achievements in green, low‑carbon development and the cultivation of a vibrant innovation landscape. Together, these contributions offer a structured “Beijing Approach” to sustainable urban development worldwide. Ying Sheng, Country Manager, UN-Habitat China Office, reviewed the CFCC's achievements over the past year and unveiled its strategic priorities for 2026. In response to pressing global housing and climate challenges, the CFCC has designated "Buildings for the Future" as its core thematic focus for 2026. It will also commence the compilation of the Future Cities Advisory Outlook 2026, thereby contributing insights from China to the global pursuit of sustainable urban development.The high-level roundtable forums in the afternoon centered on three key themes — "Future Jinhua," "Future Technology," and "Sustainable Future" — prompting multidimensional dialogue and idea exchange.Wrap-up: Harnessing Collective Intelligence, Shaping Sustainable Cities Together
This meeting brought together practical insights and innovative energy in the fields of AI and sustainable urban development in China. The discussions reaffirmed that digital technologies, with AI at the forefront, are key enablers for achieving the SDGs and creating inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable human settlements. From Jinhua’s local experiments to diverse urban initiatives, and from corporate innovation to academic research, the integration of technological empowerment and human‑centered values offers actionable pathways to tackle global challenges in housing, climate change, and urban governance. Building on this gathering, the CFCC will continue to drive the transition of cities worldwide toward greener, smarter, and more equitable futures—through knowledge exchange, practice‑based advocacy, and cross‑sector cooperation—actively supporting the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and contributing tangible momentum to our shared future.

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11 December 2025

New Chinese Translation Launched: Communicating Chemicals in Products

We are pleased to announce the release of the Chinese translation of Communicating Chemicals in Products: Global guidance on providing voluntary chemical-related sustainability information for products. This document is an output of the Consumer Information Programme of the One Planet Network, and its translation was supported by the China Environmental Certification Center (CEC) and Shenzhen Zero Waste.Products of modern life—from clothing and cosmetics to electronics, furniture, packaging, toys, and even the materials used in our homes—contain a wide range of chemicals. With an estimated 40,000–60,000 industrial chemicals present on the global market, improving how information on these substances is communicated has become more important than ever.This publication offers practical guidance for better sharing information on chemicals and material ingredients as part of broader product sustainability communication. Building on the 10 high-level principles of the Guidelines for Providing Product Sustainability Information, the document explains how these principles can be applied specifically to chemicals in products. It also includes best-practice examples to support businesses and organizations in delivering clear, reliable, and accessible information.As a complementary resource to the original Guidelines, this translated edition aims to support Chinese-speaking stakeholders in enhancing transparency, strengthening consumer trust, and improving the communication of chemical-related sustainability information across all product categories.

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29 November 2025

UN in China and International Teochew Federation Co-Host Event in Chaozhou to Mark the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations

Chaozhou, 29 November 2025—To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN), the UN in China and the International Teochew Federation today co-hosted an event in Chaozhou under the theme “Tides Uniting the World, Harmony for a Shared Future: Heritage and Innovation, Shaping the Future Together”. The event brought together senior representatives from the Government of China, international organizations including the UN, leaders from the global Teochew community, entrepreneurs, academics, youth representatives, and cultural leaders. Participants explored how cultural heritage, technological innovation, private-sector dynamism, and sustainable development efforts can collectively shape a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous future.Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, highlighted that Teochew history has been shaped by openness, migration, and entrepreneurship around the world. Teochew communities have built bridges across cultures and economies, while maintaining strong ties with their roots. These qualities are vital for sustainable development today.A key highlight of the event was the launch of the “Harmony for a Shared Future: Global Teochew Sustainable Development Initiative”. Siddharth Chatterjee, the UN Resident Coordinator in China, said: “As we look ahead, a key question guides us: What should the next chapter of global cooperation look like? The launch of the Initiative today offers a compelling answer. By mobilizing diaspora networks, resources, and expertise, this initiative demonstrates how communities can power Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) achievement from the ground up.”Chen Younan, Executive President of the International Teochew Federation, stated: "Faced with global changes, the UN's Pact for the Future has charted a course for humanity. Taking this opportunity, Teochew people worldwide should integrate the advantages of Teochew business into the overall framework of sustainable development; enable Teochew culture to transcend national borders; and unlock the innovative vitality of young Teochew talents on the international stage."Zhou Ruyin, Vice Mayor of Chaozhou Municipal People's Government, Guangdong Province, emphasized that over the past 80 years, the UN has always taken the UN Charter as its cornerstone, playing a leading and core role in global governance. It serves as a crucial platform for realizing multilateralism and advancing global governance. At this important historical juncture, our engagement with the UN in China to discuss cooperation and envision the future carries even more profound significance.During a special session hosted by China Media Group’s Dialogue programme at the event today, prominent Teochew leaders and innovators from around the world exchanged views on how global Teochew communities are contributing to sustainable development, philanthropy, and cross-border partnershipUN Resident Coordinator and Mr. He Xiaojun, Party Secretary of Chaozhou highlighted the importance of forging partnerships, fostering innovation and solidarity, which are critical to address differences and convene different stakeholders at a time of unprecedented challenges. The event formed part of a series of commemorative activities organized by the UN in China throughout 2025 to reflect on eight decades of multilateral achievements, renew commitments to the Pact for the Future, and reinforce partnerships, including with the local governments and private sector, to accelerate global progress towards the SDGs, as a follow-up of the pre-Pact dialogue that we co-convened with International Teochew Federation in August 2024 in Shenzhen, to provide private sector perspectives to the Pact, ahead of the Summit of the Future.

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10 November 2025

Eighth International High-Level Forum Paves Way for Sustainable and People-Centered Urbanization

Beijing, 10 November – The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) and the China Center for Urban Development (CCUD) co-convened the Eighth International High-Level Forum on Urban Sustainable Development. The forum served as a strategic platform to localize of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the New Urban Agenda, in alignment with the UN-Habitat Strategic Plan 2026-2029. Themed with “Building a Modern People-Centered City and Advancing the Sustainable Development of International Cities”, the forum facilitated a high-level exchange of innovative practices, pathways, and models to localize sustainable development and promote urban prosperity. The forum brought together over 150 participants, including senior representatives from Chinese ministries, city representatives and academic experts from 17 countries of Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Mongolia, as well as delegates from international organizations, the private sector, academia, and media. In his opening remarks, Mr. Gao Guoli, Director of CCUD, emphasized that modern people-centered cities highly align with the goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Currently, urban sustainable development faces numerous challenges. Urban Collaboration is a key pathway toward shared prosperity. Mr. Gao proposed vibrant cities should be leveraged the innovation as the engine, smart cities grounded in green and ecological principles, efficient cities supported by modern governance, happy cities focused on human well-being, and open cities connected through international collaboration. All the factors jointly promote the modernization of urban development. Mr. Avi Sarkar, Regional Advisor for South-East Asia and Head of UN-Habitat Lao PDR acknowledged China’s significant progress in pioneering an urban development model that places people’s needs and green transition at its core. “China’s experience offers valuable, actionable insights for cities worldwide grappling with the complexities of sustainable urbanization,” he stated. “Sharing these lessons is critical as we collectively work towards a more urbanized world that leaves no one and no place behind, a central tenet of our new Strategic Plan.” The forum’s keynote speeches delved into the core transformative pathways essential for urban futures:Internationalization is an important path for modern people's cities, emphasized by Mr. Liu Yanhua, Forer Vice Minister of the Ministry of Science and Technology, Academician of the International Eurasian Academy of Science. He stated that Industrial transformation, green and low-carbon development, as well as urban-rural linkage, innovative urban governance and urban resilience needs to be focused to develop modern people’s cities,Mr. Qiu Baoxing, Former Vice Minister of the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, Academician of the International Eurasian Academy of Sciences stated that city, as the technical and innovative center, should create livable and business-friendly climates, improving business climates, and attract and gather innovative talents, and build a city's science and technology innovation ecosystem.Mr. Yang Kaizhong, Member of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Academician of the International Eurasian Academy of Sciences, Dean of the School of Applied Economics of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences Discussions underscored that China should stay guided by the new development philosophy and a holistic view of national security during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. The “eco-smart entity” city should be positioned as the prime engine, the modern people-centered city as the living laboratory, and a new-quality city—green, intelligent, and resilient—as the shared goal. A governance paradigm that marries human insight with machine capability must be built, embedding a happiness infrastructure that puts people first and ensuring that every citizen shares in the fruits of urban progress.Luay Ahmad, the Director of Housing Policy at the Damascus Ministry of Public Works and Housing, believed that for a systematic and coordinated mechanism needs to be established for sustainable urban development at the micro, meso and macro levels. At the micro level, the focus is on enhancing individual capabilities and innovating community governance. At the meso level, efforts are made to improve the operational efficiency of the urban system and optimize resource allocation. At the macro level, it is necessary to improve the urban governance system and build a forward-looking policy framework.The Parallel discussion, moderated by Mr. Yang Yu, Vice President of the China Reform Daily, featured insights for people-centered sustainable urban development from Mr. Ying Sheng, Country Manager of UN-Habitat China Office, Ms. Shang Jing, Deputy Director General and Chief Planner of Research Center of Territorial Spatial Planning, the Ministry of Natural Resources and other panels. The discussion explored practical solutions and policy recommendations across key areas, including efficient and integrated land use, low-carbon infrastructure and climate technology applications, Financing sustainable urban development, urban regeneration and renewal, artificial intelligence contributed to urban planning and governance.

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08 November 2025

Scholars Gathered in Wuhan to Discuss the New Pathways for Human Settlements Development—2025 Wuhan International Seminar on Human Settlements Development Successfully Held

Wuhan, 7-8 November— The "2025 Wuhan International Seminar on Human Settlements Development," co-organized by UN-Habitat and the Wuhan Municipal Bureau of Natural Resources and Urban-Rural Development, and undertaken by the Wuhan Planning and Design Institute (Wuhan Transportation Development Strategy Research Institute) (WPDI), was successfully held in Wuhan. Centered on the two themes of "Livable Districts" and "International Wetland City," the Seminar comprised three major international forums, including the International Crossover Summit on Human Settlements Development, the International Symposium on Livable Cities in Asia-Pacific, and the International Forum on Wetland Governance. All three events served as flagship programmes for Wuhan's 2025 City of Design.On the afternoon of 7th November, the International Crossover Summit on Human Settlements Development, themed "Multidimensional Symbiosis·Future Human Settlements: Interdisciplinary Dialogue and Innovative Practices," was held in the Han Hall of the Wuhan International Expo Center. Moderated by Mr. Li Zhigang, Dean of the School of Urban Design at Wuhan University, the event featured opening remarks by Srinivasa Popuri, Chief of the UN-Habitat Multi Country Programme Office of Regional Office of Asia and the Pacific, and Mr. Cheng Minghua, Deputy Director of the Wuhan Municipal Bureau of Natural Resources and Urban-Rural Development. Keynote presentations were delivered by: Mr. Tom Wolters, Senior Advisor at UN-Habitat, Mr. Ma Yin, Founder and CEO of Aranya, Mr. Tan Gangyi, Dean of School of Architecture and Urban Planning at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Mr. Dong Gong, Foreign Member of the French Academy of Architecture and Founder of Vector Architects shared insights on urbanization, ecological civilization, sponge city construction in Wuhan, Aranya community development, and future low-altitude human settlements design. The speakers provided systematic thoughts for future human settlements development from ecological, community, technological, and design perspectives. On the morning of 8th November, the International Symposium on Livable Cities in Asia-Pacific convened at the Sky Library of the WPDI. Mr. Hu Yueping, the Vice President moderated the session. The opening remarks are delivered by Mr. Zhang Zhenshan, Senior Advisor of UN-Habitat China Office, and Ms. Zhu Ying, Deputy Director of the Wuhan Municipal Bureau of Natural Resources and Urban-Rural Development. Mr. Laxman Perera, Senior Advisor of UN-Habitat Sri Lanka Office, Mr. Vanna Sok, HPM of UN-Habitat Cambodia Office, Mr. Luay Ahmad, Policy Director from Ministry of Public Works and Housing of Syria, Ms. Ninik Suhartini, Assistant Professor at Bandung Institute of Technology, Indonesia, Ms. Liu Jiayan, Professor at Tsinghua University School of Architecture, Mr. Pan Minding, Vice President of Arte Charpentier Paris Headquarters & Chairman of China Branch, and Mr. Hu Dongdong, Director of the Xiangyang Branch of WPDI, shared experiences and achievements on topics of governance practices for livable cities and the management of informal settlements in the Asia-Pacific region. They addressed that while the Asia-Pacific region had the differences in socio-economic situation and environmental resources, it shared common goals and aspirations in developing the livable cities. Its distinctive governance models for livable cities provided valuable references for the sustainable development of cities worldwide.On the afternoon of 8th November, International Forum on Wetland Governance convened at Wuhan's Chenhu International Town. Moderated by Ms. Sun Xiaoli, Vice President of WPDI, the session featured opening remarks by Mr. Ying Sheng, Country Manager of UN-Habitat China Office, and Mr. Wu Liqun, Associate Chief Inspector of Wuhan Natural Resource. Mr. Srinivasa Popuri, Ms. Ana Mendes, Professor at the University of Évora, Portugal, Mr. Tom Wolters, Ms. Bettina Lamm, Professor at the University of Copenhagen, Ms. Verónica Gonzalez, Officer from Panama's Ministry of Environment, Mr. Cheng Liang, Vice President of the China Wetland Conservation Association, Ms. He Mei, Chief Planner of the Wuhan Municipal Bureau of Natural Resources and Urban-Rural Development, and Ms. Liu Ai, Director of the Wetland and Wildlife Conservation Division of the Wuhan Bureau of Parks and Forestry. They shared and exchanged insights on case studies of ecological restoration of Inle Lake in Myanmar, the Mechlen Living Lab collaboration project, and wetland conservation practices in China, Netherlands and Panama. These presentations and dialogues addressed the multi-dimensional challenges of wetland conservation. The Forum showcased Wuhan's innovative achievements in wetland governance and ecological transformation, as well as provided a reference model for wetland cities worldwide.This Seminar established a valuable exchange platform for domestic and international scholars, with over 600 participants of the three sessions. Over ten renowned domestic and international experts and scholars recognized Wuhan as a "model city for harmonious coexistence between humans and nature." They acknowledged Wuhan's extensive experience in livable city development, urban renewal, and wetland restoration, as well as its ongoing exploration of optimal pathways. This demonstrates Wuhan's open, inclusive, and innovative spirit as a "City of Design."

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Press Release

12 November 2025

UN China Strengthens System-Wide Disability Inclusion Through Landmark Capacity-Building Workshop

The workshop was organized under the strategic guidance of Prof. Shahbaz Khan, Director of UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia and Chair of the UNTGD, whose leadership continues to strengthen the UN system’s collective commitment to disability inclusion. Aligned with this broader vision, the workshop contributes to the UN Country Team’s (UNCT) ongoing efforts to accelerate the implementation of the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS) and strengthen the UN system’s ability to mainstream disability inclusion across leadership, strategic planning, programming, and organizational culture.Facilitated by Ms. Sreerupa Mitra, Regional Disability Inclusion Specialist at UNICEF East Asia and Pacific Regional Office, and co-facilitated by Ms. Zeng Qingyi, National Professional Officer at UNESCO Regional Office for East Asia, the training brought together more than 33 participants from 12 UN agencies.Opening the workshop, Ms. Sarwat Adnan, Head of UN RCO, welcomed participants and commended their commitment to strengthening disability inclusion across the UN system. She emphasized that the UNDIS is not merely a checklist but a shared responsibility and mindset that should guide how the UN plans, communicates, engages, and delivers. True inclusion, she stressed, requires removing barriers so that persons with disabilities can participate fully and with dignity. Ms. Mitra then provided an overview of the workshop objectives and introduced key disability-inclusion concepts, including the social model of disability, Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) compliance, and preconditions for meaningful inclusion. Participants deepened their understanding of the twin-track approach and explored how the principles of the CRPD can be applied throughout the programme cycle. Ms. Mitra also briefed participants on the UNDIS framework, while Ms. Zeng presented trends and lessons from UNDIS implementation in China between 2020 and 2024. Building Shared Understanding and Practical SkillsOver two days, participants engaged in discussions, technical sessions, and interactive exercises designed to equip them with practical tools to advance disability inclusion. Working in breakout groups, participants assessed progress and identified concrete actions across 14 UNDIS indicators within four key dimensions: leadership and strategic planning, inclusiveness, programming, and organizational culture. Key HighlightsUNDIS Scorecard Deep Dive:Participants reviewed the 14 indicators of the UNCT Accountability Scorecard on Disability Inclusion, analyzed performance trends, discussed good practices, and identified gaps and opportunities for joint action in 2025 and beyond.Digital Accessibility Demonstration:Digital accessibility expert Mr. Prashant Ranjan Verma led a hands-on session on creating accessible Word documents. Participants practiced using in-built accessibility checkers, adding alt text, structuring headings, and ensuring keyboard navigation—core skills required to meet UN digital accessibility standards.Meaningful Engagement with OPDs:Ms. Ji Xun, Founder of Rare & Roll, presented a case study illustrating meaningful engagement of organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) in a UN joint programme in the museum sector. She highlighted three key strategies: enhancing accessibility, strengthening partnerships with OPDs, and improving communication and advocacy. From Training to ActionBy the end of the workshop, each UN entity developed an entity-specific action plan aligned with the UNDIS Scorecard indicators. The UNTGD Secretariat will consolidate these into UNCT China UNDIS Roadmap 2025, serving as a shared framework to guide continued progress.The outcomes of the workshop were presented to the UNCT leadership on 14 November 2025, followed by bilateral discussions with the RCO and the UN Communications Group (UNCG) Chair and Co-Chair to review key takeaways and next steps.About the UNTGDEstablished in 2015 and chaired by UNESCO, the UNTGD is a unique multi-stakeholder platform for dialogue and advocacy on the rights and needs of persons with disabilities in China. The Group currently brings together more than 170 members from 118 entities, working collaboratively to advance disability inclusion across the UN system. The UNTGD coordinates efforts among UN agencies in China to strengthen coherence, share good practices, and support the implementation of the UNDIS and the CRPD. Through its collective work, the Group contributes to ensuring that the UN system in China leaves no one behind.

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Press Release

24 October 2025

UN in China commemorates 80th anniversary of the United Nations

The UN Day, observed annually on 24 October, marks the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945. This year's celebration coincides with a significant milestone — the 80th anniversary of the United Nations — and held under the global theme “Building Our Future Together”. The event served as a reminder of the UN’s founding mission to uphold peace, human rights, and sustainable development, while reaffirming the importance of international cooperation in addressing today’s global challenges.In his video message, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reflected on the UN’s eight-decade legacy of forging peace, advancing human rights, and tackling global challenges. He emphasized the urgency of collective action in the face of today’s escalating crises and reaffirmed the enduring promise of the United Nations. “Let’s show the world what is possible when ‘we the peoples’ choose to act as one,” he urged. The event welcomed senior Chinese officials, including representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China. In his remarks, Cai Wei, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, reiterated China’s strong support for the work of the United Nations and emphasized the country’s steadfast commitment to multilateralism, global peace, and sustainable development. “China has all along stood firmly on the right side of history. We have fully supported the cause of the United Nations, actively undertaken our responsibilities as a major country, and remained committed to being a contributor to global development, a defender of world peace, a driver of human civilization, and a builder of international order,” he said. Leaders from the UN delivered remarks highlighting the Organization’s evolving partnership with China and the need for bold, inclusive cooperation to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In his address, the 8th UN Secretary-General and Chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia, Ban Ki-moon, underscored the enduring value of the UN Charter and the relevance of global solidarity.“The UN is not perfect, but it is indispensable. It is the workshop where our ‘together’ is made — in dialogue to wage peace, in treaties to protect our planet, and in action to feed the hungry and heal the sick,” he stated. In his remarks, UN Resident Coordinator in China, Siddharth Chatterjee, reflected on the historic milestone of UN at 80 and China’s role in shaping multilateral cooperation. “If we stand together—in solidarity, in trust, and in shared resolve—there is no challenge beyond our reach. The United Nations was born from humanity’s determination to rise from the ruins; it must now become the engine of our renewal,” he affirmed. Artistic performances also formed part of the celebration, blending cultural traditions with modern interpretations to reflect the UN’s global identity and spirit of cooperation. The UN in China expressed appreciation to all supporting partners and guests, with special thanks to the International Center on Cooperation (ICC) for their contribution to the success of the event. As the international community prepares for the next UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2026–2030), UN Day 2025 offered a moment to reflect on lessons from the past and forge new pathways forward. Echoing the spirit of the UN80 Initiatives, it also called for renewed commitment to global solidarity, inclusive dialogue, and transformative action to build a more peaceful, sustainable, and equitable future for all.

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Press Release

16 October 2025

University Dialogue on Pact for the Future Implementation Held at Beijing Foreign Studies University

Co-hosted by the United Nations University (UNU), the UN in China, the Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), and the University of Cape Town (UCT), the Dialogue brought together academic leaders, UN officials, and representatives from government and civil society to advance the commitments of the Pact for the Future, a landmark document adopted at the UN Summit of the Future in September 2024. Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Li Hai, Deputy Director-General of the Department of International Cooperation and Exchanges, Ministry of Education of China; Mr. Guy Ryder, UN Under-Secretary-General for Policy (via video message); Mr. Themba Kalua, Director, Pact for the Future Implementation, Executive Office of the UN Secretary-General; and Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee, UN Resident Coordinator in China. Mr. Li Hai stated: “Universities must play a leading role in the dissemination of ideas, talent cultivation, and intercultural dialogue, integrating the spirit of the Pact into teaching, research, and society, promoting mutual learning among civilizations, enhancing international understanding, and laying a humanistic foundation for building a community of people.” Mr. Guy Ryder emphasized: “The Pact for the Future reaffirms our commitment to multilateralism and cooperation. Universities play a critical role in turning words into action for a peaceful, sustainable future.” Mr. Themba Kalua remarked: “At this pivotal moment, we must renew our commitment to solidarity and global cooperation. Academia is essential for transforming the Pact’s vision into real-world impact.” Mr. Siddharth Chatterjee noted: “Young people and universities provide the momentum and ideas needed to realize the Pact for the Future. Academic collaboration will drive progress and shape future leaders.”Welcome remarks were also delivered by Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector, UNU (via video message); Prof. Adam Day, Head of Geneva Office, United Nations University Centre for Policy Research, UNU; Prof. Mosa Moshabela, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, UCT (via video message); and Mr. Wang Dinghua, Chairman of the University Council, BFSU. The event featured a keynote dialogue on future-oriented university research and collaboration, with participation from leading institutions including Shanghai New York University, Papua New Guinea University of Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (Qatar), St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo (Bulgaria), University of Buenos Aires (Argentina), University of Strathclyde (United Kingdom), and China Foreign Affairs University. Representatives shared insights on advancing interdisciplinary research, fostering international partnerships, and leveraging innovation to address global challenges. The dialogue highlighted the importance of universities working together across borders to drive sustainable development and prepare students for the future. A highlight of the event was the launch of the University Action Plan on Pact for the Future Implementation. The Action Plan prioritizes integrating the Pact into university curricula and education, fostering interdisciplinary learning and faculty development. It calls for building sustainable campuses that exemplify carbon neutrality and green infrastructure, while enhancing digital capacity and inclusion to ensure students and staff are equipped with digital literacy and responsible technology use. The Plan also emphasizes research innovation and knowledge transfer aligned with the Pact’s priorities, engaging youth and future generations in international dialogues and decision-making, and strengthening international cooperation and partnerships to collectively advance the goals of the Pact. The preparatory process for establishing a Center of Excellence for Future-Oriented Learning was also announced, aiming to provide a platform for best practices and collaboration in higher education. The event concluded with an SDG Dialogue Series, fostering discussion on the role of universities in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Mr. Zhao Gang, Vice President of BFSU, delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the significance of collective action and ongoing collaboration among universities to realize the vision of the Pact for the Future.As the UN marks its 80th anniversary, this Dialogue underscores the urgent need for universities to unite in developing multilateral solutions through research, education, and innovation. The UN calls upon academic institutions worldwide to translate the Pact for the Future into concrete actions, educating future leaders with global vision, responsibility, and innovation capabilities to build a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world.

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Press Release

07 October 2025

Ford Foundation and United Nations in China Convene AsiaXchange 2025 Dialogue on South–South Cooperation and Climate Finance

Opening the dialogue, Alexander Irwan, Regional Director at Ford Foundation in Indonesia, called for stronger South–South partnerships to expand resource mobilization beyond traditional North–South channels, highlighting the need to build bridges between governments, international organizations, and the private sector to unlock untapped financing opportunities. Boby Hernawan, Director of Multilateral Cooperation and Sustainable Finance at the Ministry of Finance in Indonesia, highlighted that climate change is not only an environmental issue but a financial stability challenge that demands coordinated fiscal, monetary, and regulatory responses. He outlined Indonesia’s efforts to align sustainable finance including green budgeting, targeted incentives, and climate-related stress testing for banks. “The question is no longer whether we can afford to act, but whether we can afford not to,” he said, emphasizing that climate finance must be seen not as a cost, but as the foundation of the region’s resilient and sustainable future. He called for stronger South–South cooperation to mobilize capital, close the climate finance gap, and drive a more inclusive economic transformation across the Global South. In his remarks, Siddharth Chatterjee, UN Resident Coordinator in China, reflected on his longstanding connections to both Indonesia and China, describing them as “pillars of transformation and leadership in the Global South.” He underscored China’s achievements in renewable energy and green finance as examples of how political will, effective execution, and partnership can drive real progress. Drawing parallels with Indonesia’s rapid development and innovation, he emphasized that Asia’s cooperation will be essential to advancing climate action and delivering tangible outcomes at COP30. “This is the moment for Asia to lead, by working together to deliver the climate transformation our planet urgently needs,” he said. Moderated by Marlistya Citraningrum, the session brought together Joko Tri Haryanto of the Indonesia Environment Fund, Jennifer Lasimbang of Indigenous Peoples of Asia Solidarity (IPAS) Fund, Piyachart Isarabhakdee of BRANDi, and Xu Hu of the Chinese Academy of Financial Inclusion. The discussion underscored that unlocking climate finance in the Asia-Pacific requires cross-border collaboration, stronger regional partnerships, and inclusive frameworks that leave no community behind. Speakers noted that mobilizing climate finance is not only about expanding capital flows but also about ensuring equitable access and lasting impact. They highlighted challenges such as high borrowing costs and limited project pipelines, while pointing to community-led solutions, local financial systems, and indigenous knowledge as essential foundations for just and sustainable transitions. Building on the momentum of the Pre-COP30 seminar held at the UN Compound in Beijing, which called for COP30 in Belém to be a “COP of implementation,” participants at AsiaXchange echoed similar themes of urgency and action. As underscored in Beijing, where Brazil and China were highlighted as key partners in advancing climate finance and sustainable development, speakers in Jakarta reaffirmed that the credibility of the climate process depends not on new pledges but on delivering tangible outcomes. Both events converged on the message that ambition must translate into results: clean energy access, resilient livelihoods, and equitable transitions that place people and planet at the center. Looking ahead to COP30 in Belém, participants reaffirmed that South–South cooperation is a critical driver for closing the climate finance gap. Speakers noted that Asia-Pacific countries are uniquely positioned to lead through regional solidarity and innovation, by scaling up green bonds and blended finance, advancing just energy transitions, and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure. Echoing the messages of the Pre-COP30 discussions in Beijing, participants agreed that trust in the global climate process depends on turning commitments into measurable outcomes and ensuring that climate finance delivers tangible benefits for those most vulnerable to climate change.The session concluded with a call to carry forward the momentum of AsiaXchange 2025 through research partnerships, policy innovation, and practical cooperation that can expand the pool of resources available to the Global South. Both the Ford Foundation and the UN in China reaffirmed their commitment to supporting this work, underscoring that regional collaboration is key to advancing sustainable development and accelerating climate action.

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Press Release

29 September 2025

United Nations in China and Shanghai Institutes for International Studies Co-Host International Symposium on Multilateralism and Sustainable Development

In his welcoming remarks, Professor Chen Dongxiao, President of SIIS, noted that the world is facing profound uncertainty and overlapping crises. He highlighted the urgent need to “empower the UN, so to continue to make it fulfill its vital mission – promote global solidarity and cooperation; safeguard international peace and security; advance the sustainable development agenda worldwide and uphold fairness and justice in delivering the goals.” He called on all countries to contribute to revitalizing multilateralism and reaffirmed SIIS’s commitment to serving as a platform for research and dialogue in support of UN priorities. Siddharth Chatterjee, UN Resident Coordinator in China, underscored in his opening remarks that multilateralism remains indispensable in today’s interconnected world. “Multilateralism is not a luxury; it is an absolute necessity. In a world of complex and interwoven risks, unilateralism cannot provide global solutions,” he said, pointing to the UN Pact for the Future as a blueprint for advancing climate action, mobilizing financing for development, and driving digital transformation while safeguarding human rights. The keynote speeches reinforced these themes. Professor Zhou Hanmin, Standing Committee Member of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference and Chairman of Shanghai Public Diplomacy Association, stressed that “fostering solidarity and cooperation is the only path to overcoming crisis.” He called for deeper collaboration in clean energy, green finance, and the digital economy, citing China’s carbon reduction pledges as a demonstration of global leadership. Professor Yang Jiemian, Director of the Academic Advisory Committee at SIIS, reflected on Shanghai’s historic role in international diplomacy and emphasized the importance of combining far-sighted vision with practical action to strengthen the UN system, reminding participants that “the UN and the current international system need to keep pace with the times.” In her video message, Rosemary DiCarlo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, noted that despite its imperfections, the UN has prevented another world war, advanced human rights, and lifted millions out of poverty. She described the Pact for the Future as “our pledge to multilateralism, to make it fit for now and for the future. The Pact offers an ambitious vision to reinvigorate international cooperation.” Li Junhua, UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, emphasized the urgency of addressing the financing gap for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “Unsustainable debt servicing costs and a growing financing gap are crippling the ability of many developing countries to achieve the SDGs,” he said, adding that the Pact for the Future, together with the outcomes of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development and preparations for the 2025 UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), provides a strong framework for renewed cooperation and actionable policies to close the SDG financing gap, address the debt crisis, and reinforce multilateralism. The symposium featured five thematic panel discussions. The first, on partnerships and financing for development, explored how to advance the outcomes of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development. Experts stressed the need to reform the global financial architecture, expand blended finance, and reduce borrowing costs for developing countries, while underscoring those partnerships among development banks, governments, and the private sector are vital to ensuring that resources reach the most vulnerable. The second panel, focused on climate action, examined preparations for COP30 in Belém. Participants agreed that ambition must be translated into implementation, particularly through scaling up adaptation finance and ensuring just energy transitions. China’s carbon reduction commitments were highlighted as a signal of leadership, and panelists called for greater South–South cooperation to close gaps in capacity and resources. The third panel, Youth for the Future, placed young voices at the center of the debate. Youth delegates emphasized that their generation is not only the most affected by global challenges but also a driver of innovation and solutions. They urged more meaningful inclusion of youth in policymaking, expanded opportunities in green and digital economies, and greater recognition of youth leadership in climate action and sustainable development. The fourth panel, AI for Good, examined how artificial intelligence can be harnessed to promote inclusive development while minimizing risks. Panelists stressed the importance of bridging the digital divide, ensuring developing countries benefit from AI, and embedding ethics and human rights into governance frameworks. The fifth panel, looking ahead to the UN’s next eighty years, addressed the future of multilateralism. Speakers called for reforms to make the UN more representative, resilient, and capable of responding to both traditional and emerging global challenges, while underscoring the increasingly central role of civil society and the private sector in global governance. Throughout the symposium, speakers emphasized that the symposium was not only a commemoration but also a call to action — to reinvigorate multilateralism, accelerate progress on sustainable development, and ensure that the UN remains fit for purpose for the decades to come. The symposium concluded with a reaffirmation of the UN’s enduring relevance and China’s role as a committed partner in upholding multilateralism. Participants agreed on the importance of strengthening global solidarity, investing in sustainable development, and modernizing the multilateral system to meet 21st-century challenges.

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