An event marking the International Day for Biological Diversity, held annually on May 22, was held Wednesday in Wuzhishan city, south China's Hainan Province.
Under the banner "Be Part of the Plan", the event convened representatives from international organizations, including the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the European Union.
Recognizing biodiversity as the foundation of life, China has elevated its conservation to a national strategic priority. This crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, promoting scientific research, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring human well-being necessitates continuous efforts.
The country is continuously improving laws, regulations, and mechanisms for biodiversity protection, and taking action to vigorously enhance its ability to ensure its natural ecosystems thrive.
Official data reveals that 90 percent of terrestrial ecosystems and 74 percent of key national protected wildlife populations are now under effective protection in China.
China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment pledged a stronger leadership role in global environmental governance.
"This year marks the fourth year and also the last year for China to hold the presidency of 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity. We will continue to demonstrate leadership as the chairing country, actively tell the stories of China's biodiversity conservation through multiple channels and in multiple forms, raise public awareness about biodiversity conservation and make Chinese contributions to global biodiversity protection," said Zhang Yujun, director of the Department of Nature and Ecology Conservation under the ministry.
China holds event to mark International Day for Biological Diversity
On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.
Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.
In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.
"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.
"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.
He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.
"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.
Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth
