(Originally published on 05/18/2012)

In her penultimate meeting with China’s leaders, Miss Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator, met with Mr. Li Liguo, Minister of Civil Affairs, to identify ways in which UNDP can further support the development of Chinese civil society, disaster risk reduction and improve resilience. With the strengthening of social organizations high on the agenda of China’s 12th Five Year Plan, Miss Clark acknowledged on-going efforts to provide a supportive regulatory and policy environment.

Describing building resilience as a transformational process that draws on the innate strength of individuals, their communities, and institutions to lessen the impacts of disasters, she focused her attention on the potential for sharing China’s experiences with the world. In particular, she pointed to China’s swift response to the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008, and commended the Ministry for its role in efforts to rebuild lives.

While many of her remarks over the last few days have sought to demonstrate the immense power that China has to bring about change in the world – by sharing such experiences with other developing countries – Miss Clark reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to strengthening civil society development and empowering Chinese people to play a more active role in their societies. Mr. Liguo also spoke highly of Miss Clark’s contributions to development, both as Prime Minister of New Zealand and as UNDP Administrator, and expressed his confidence that her expertise on disasters, in particular, would strengthen their combined work in this important field.