We have seen positive steps in this direction.  

Let me cite four examples of how each and every one of us can play a role to bridge this critical global gap.    

First - The China-established Kunming Biodiversity Fund has to date announced 31 projects that will support countries globally on biodiversity protection, with a total funding of an estimated 220 million RMB. We look forward to the global development community coming forward to further support biodiversity efforts through this platform.  

Second - UNDP's global Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) funded by a range of development partners, has supported progress in 133 countries, unlocking $2.7 billion worldwide.  

UNDP’s BIOFIN is implemented in partnership with the European Commission and the Governments of Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Belgium, Flanders, the UK, Canada, and France, and the Global Environment Facility.  

Third - UNDP in China is working with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, and other partners to advance innovative financial instruments such as Blended Finance, Migrate Birds Index Insurance, including through pilot initiatives in Shanghai and here in Chongming.  

And finally, the private sector also plays an important role when it comes to biodiversity finance both from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) perspectives.  

For example, here in Chongming National Nature Reserve, UNDP’s partnership with the private sector e.g. NIO is focusing on demonstrating how innovation can contribute to climate action and nature protection.  

There is much more that we can do individually and most importantly, collectively for our common home, planet and future, 

Ladies and gentlemen,  

To ensure these efforts can proceed at speed and scale, we need to deepen integrated and coordinated management approaches that break silos.  

Nature does not recognize administrative boundaries. Water, soil, forests, and wildlife are one interconnected ecosystem.  

As such, we must manage natural resources holistically – from river basins and water resources to entire ecosystems, and we must coordinate urban and rural development in smart and holistic ways. 

On this point,  I am inspired by China’s concepts of blue‑green cities, wetland cities, resilient cities, and sponge cities.  

To me, these are not just labels. They are practical and proven innovative solutions.  

When a sponge city absorbs stormwater, it reduces flooding, recharges groundwater, and creates healthier urban habitats for birds, vegetation, and people alike.  

China’s spatial planning for land and natural resources also provides inspiration and best practices.  

China’s ecological red line policy – designating areas where development is strictly limited – is a world‑class innovation and a widely recognized practice.  

It has protected millions of hectares of critical habitats, now covering 30% of China’s terrestrial landmass.  

By combining ecological red lines with land‑use zoning, ecosystem service mapping, and participatory governance, we can achieve a true balance between conservation, livelihoods, and sustainable development. 

UNDP will continue to share these insights and development lessons with other developing countries through our South-South Cooperation technical exchanges. 

Ladies and gentlemen,  

In closing, let me say that biodiversity is not a luxury. It is our life support system.  

Let us move forward with common vision, mutual understanding, and decisive action – not only for humans, but for all species.  

Together, we can turn the Kunming‑Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework into a reality, and build a more just, inclusive and sustainable future for both people and planet, leaving no one behind. 

Thank you for your attention!