LocationsRemarks by Mr James George at the "Chaoyang: Progress with the World" International Cooperation Appreciation Reception
January 31, 2026
UNDP Resident Representative a.i. in China, James George, delivered remarks at the "Chaoyang: Progress with the World" International Cooperation Appreciation Reception in Beijing, China.
Tang Wenhong, Vice Mayor of the Beijing Municipal People's Government
Wu Xiaojie, Secretary of CPC Beijing Chaoyang District Committee
Distinguished guests, friends from the diplomatic and business communities,
A very good afternoon.
It is a great pleasure to join you in this season of hope and renewal as we usher in the Year of the Horse.
Let me begin by extending my sincere appreciation to the Chaoyang District Government for this kind invitation.
UNDP established its office here in Beijing in 1979.
Over more than four and a half decades, we have been proud to have accompanied and supported China on its development journey, working alongside our partners across national and local governments, the international development community, domestic development partners and the private sector.
Together, we have all witnessed the significant progress that has been made in advancing sustainable development and green transformation across China, including here in Beijing and the Chaoyang District.
In particular, we at UNDP, with our office located beside Liangma River in the heart of Chaoyang District, have seen this transformation first-hand and up-close, through the revitalization of the Liangma River International Waterfront.
Today, through concerted efforts, the river is now a modern green space bringing communities together and is an excellent example of urban renewal.
Successfully transforming a city to be green, low-carbon, and inclusive to all, is only possible through a clear vision, significant investments, and a strong commitment from all stakeholders.
I therefore congratulate Chaoyang District on the concerted efforts and important achievements it has made over the years – achievements which can provide critical lessons and insights more broadly.
Indeed, at UNDP, we were honoured to have been able to co-host the Asian Mayors Forum last year together with Chaoyang District.
Attended by mayors, policymakers and urban planners from across the globe, the forum was a valuable platform to learn from Beijing’s experience and engage in knowledge exchange with other major cities from around the world.
"Cities already account for roughly 70 per cent of global carbon emissions, and over 75 per cent of emissions in the region. Without further actions taken, and taken urgently, these numbers will only continue to rise."
Collectively, we discussed innovative new approaches to creating sustainable, low-carbon cities that are also both people and business-friendly.
Moving forward, we wish Chaoyang District all the very best in realizing its vision for the functions of “Five Zones” and charting a forward-looking transformation that is inclusive, green and prosperous.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Indeed, despite the great efforts that have been made to date, we must also recognize that there is still much work to be done.
Rapid urbanization is a fundamental challenge in tackling the global climate crisis. At the current rate, over 60 per cent of the world’s population will live in cities by 2030, and 70 per cent by 2050.
Cities already account for roughly 70 per cent of global carbon emissions, and over 75 per cent of emissions in the region. Without further actions taken, and taken urgently, these numbers will only continue to rise.
As such, continued efforts by the Chaoyang government to further innovate and advance green and low-carbon pathways are absolutely essential in creating unique opportunities to pilot and scale solutions that can benefit people here in Beijing and beyond.
We look forward to continuing to work together and learning from all of your best practices as China prepares to enter into implementing its next 15th Five-Year Plan.
In closing, as we prepare to celebrate the Spring Festival ahead, let me take this opportunity to wish everyone a joyful and prosperous Year of the Horse.
Thank you.
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