LocationsOpening Remarks by Mr James George at the Qinghai Investment and Industry Promotion Event
June 25, 2025
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, James George, delivered opening remarks at the Qinghai Investment and Industry Promotion Event in Qinghai, China.
Your Excellency Vice Governor Cai Rang Tai,
Esteemed guests and friends,
Good morning!
Let me begin by extending my sincere and deepest appreciation to the Qinghai Provincial Department of Commerce for the kind invitation and for hosting this important meeting. I’d also like to thank the vice governor for the amazing and inspiring stories. 谢谢！
Today’s event brings together partners from across sectors to explore how Qinghai’s unique strengths can support new pathways for inclusive, sustainable and resilient development.
For UNDP, Qinghai holds a special place of long-standing partnerships and collaboration.
Two decades ago, UNDP launched its flagship ‘Xiaokang Society’ (小康社会) programme to promote broad-based sustainable development.
Under the project, Qinghai was one of the six provinces selected as pilot sites to undertake the assessment of Xiaokang Society goals and indicators at the provincial level.
Findings and lessons from the programme were used to provide insights in the formulation of China’s development strategies, such as the 12th Five-Year Plan.
For me personally, it’s a pleasure to be back in the beautiful province of Qinghai. This is my third visit in 2 years.
I also had the opportunity to visit earlier this year in March, when winter was just beginning to loosen its grip and the first shoots of spring were coming to life and to launch our joint project with Ministry of Commerce’s China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges for Rural Revitalization through Promotion of Commerce and Sustainable Development in Gonghe Country.
Now, returning in summer, it’s wonderful to see a different side of this city—and to reconnect with the spirit of openness and cooperation that brought us together then, and again today.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Qinghai holds a special place not only within China, but also in the broader regional efforts to advance sustainable development.
As the source of China’s three great rivers—which are also among Asia’s major waterways— its ecosystems provide vital water resources for hundreds of millions of people, both in China and across the region.
The province also ranks among China’s top regions for renewable energy production—with over 90% of its electricity coming from clean sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower.
These are not only environmental assets —they are catalysts for sustainable developmental, with far-reaching impact and lessons for wider sharing with the global development community on the challenges face and the approaches undertaken.
Additionally, in 2017, Qinghai ran on 100% renewable energy for an entire week.
These contributions to clean energy are truly commendable and provide the platform that even greater progress is possible.
Across the globe, UNDP is working in 170 countries to reimagine the future.
A future that whereby the path to sustainable development is inclusive, green, and tailored to local contexts and needs – while leveraging and harnessing the latest opportunities provided by technologies and scientific discoveries.
Qinghai’s story—its challenges and its opportunities—speaks directly to the priorities that guide our work in China.
As a development partner for the last 45 years in China, our participation in today’s event is centered on the value of dialogue— listening, learning, and sharing ideas to help shape more resilient and equitable futures.
We especially recognize the power of partnerships that drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement to advance the Sustainable Development Goals - our global blueprint to protect people and the planet.
"Sustainable economic growth is not just about numbers. It’s about people—about creating decent jobs, inclusive services, and environments where future generations can thrive."
Ladies and gentlemen,
Sustainable economic growth is not just about numbers.
It’s about people—about creating decent jobs, inclusive services, and environments where future generations can thrive.
When industries prioritize environmental responsibility and social equity, they help expand opportunity—not just for the few, but for the many.
This is particularly true in the context of rural revitalization, where sustainability and inclusion must go hand in hand.
Allow me to share three perspectives for your kind consideration.
In Qinghai, three sectors stand out as important drivers of such development.
The first is renewable energy.
With its vast solar potential, Qinghai is already home to some of the largest photovoltaic projects in the country.
But beyond the provision of electricity, the key vision and the ability to make the shift of clean energy in creating new jobs, improving energy access in remote areas, and laying the foundation for a low-carbon economy that works for both people and planet – where no one is left behind – is critical.
The second is sustainable agriculture.
Qinghai’s climate and environment give rise to unique agricultural products—from highland barley to organic dairy and medicinal herbs.
With green processing and smart supply chains powered by technology and digitalization, these can boost farmer incomes while protecting the land they rely on.
The third is eco-tourism.
Qinghai’s natural beauty and cultural richness is famous and can be further leveraged.
When developed with engagement of local communities at the center, tourism becomes more than a source of income—it can strengthen identity, protect heritage, and connect Qinghai to the world.
For UNDP, we are very pleased that alongside the Ministry of Commerce’s China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges (our partner in China for four decades) and alongside our sister UN agencies—the United Nations Children’s Fund and the United Nations Population Fund, we will be supporting local government on a joint programme here in Qinghai.
This initiative aims to support local innovation, resilience, and inclusive public services, particularly in rural areas, as well as contribute to Qinghai’s broader sustainable development journey.
Our goal is not just to replicate models, but to collaborate with local partners to create solutions that respond to real local needs and opportunities in Qinghai.
We are committed to supporting Qinghai’s sustainable development—from policy advice and technical cooperation to capacity building and knowledge exchange.
Moving forward, we believe Qinghai can not only achieve balanced, high-quality development, but also inspire other areas—within China and abroad—through its example.
By connecting ecological priorities with social needs and economic innovation, Qinghai is showing how local development can help drive global progress.
In closing, I would like to once again thank our hosts for this event.
UNDP looks forward to strengthening our collaboration with the people and government of Qinghai as you operationalize the SDG, upcoming 15th Five Year Plan 2026-2030, and dual carbon goals. Together, let’s join hands and collaborate and with all the participants in today’s Forum and invest in a future that is green, sustainable and inclusive, ensuring no one is left behind.
Thank you.
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