Beijing, July 3, 2025 – On the sidelines of the 2025 Global Digital Economy Conference (GDEC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in China, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology, the People’s Government of Daxing District, and the China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges (CICETE) officially signed the “UNDP Demonstration Project on Digital-Friendly and Digital Economy for Sustainable Development in Beijing.”

The signing took place during the Global Digital Economy Collaboration Forum on July 3rd, 2025, co-organized by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology and the Daxing District Government.

Signing parties included:

• Mr. James George, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP China
• Mr. Liu Weiliang, Deputy Director-General, Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology
• Mr. Zhou Chong, Vice Governor, Daxing District
• Ms. Li Shuyin, Deputy Director-General, CICETE

The project will establish a UNDP SDG Innovation Lab focused on advancing digital-friendly and sustainable urban development. Centered on the intersection of digital transformation and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Lab will serve as a platform for applied research, policy innovation, and institutional capacity building. Through pilot initiatives and international exchange, the project will test inclusive digital solutions and facilitate cross-sector partnerships that connect innovation with real-world development. 

The insights generated will contribute to scalable models for other cities across China, fostering global exchange of technical knowledge and experiences between China and its partner countries. These insights, rooted in lessons learned and people-centered approaches, will help leverage technology to advance the SDGs, positioning the initiative as a blueprint for both people and planet.

Speaking at the Forum, Mr. James George, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP China stated, "Digital technologies are rapidly reshaping how we live, work, learn, and connect. The question is not whether this digital transformation will continue, but whether we can ensure its benefits are inclusive, equitable, and accessible to all."  

He further noted, "Digital transformation is not only a technological shift but a development opportunity. Our joint initiative in Beijing is a step toward contributing to the vision set out in the United Nations Global Digital Compact—and reflects our shared commitment to building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable digital future."

UNDP China will continue working with partners, including the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology and the Daxing District Government, to drive progress toward sustainable urban development.