Jorge Moreira da Silva, Executive Director of the United Nations Development Programme, recently gave a special interview to CGTN of China Media Group (CMG) during his visit to China.
In the interview, Silva emphasized the close connection between climate and development. He also stressed that peace and development are inseparable. Without global solidarity and cooperation, no country can face the shocks of conflict, fragility, and climate change alone. True global security can only be achieved if every nation pursues green development.
He stated that among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals adopted in 2015, only 17% are progressing as planned, while nearly 30% are falling behind. Yet, 2030 is fast approaching. Furthermore, the Paris Agreement stands as another vital pillar of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development. Failure to meet these targets will have profound negative impacts on ecosystems, humanity, and the entire planet. China has made massive investments in renewable energy and electric transportation, clearly demonstrating that green development is not only feasible but also a source of employment and economic growth. Alongside promoting green transformation domestically, China actively cooperates with developing countries to jointly accelerate green development. Both the Global Development Initiative and the Belt and Road Initiative are practical manifestations of China’s deepening partnerships with developing countries and its commitment to shared development.
Silva highly praised Chinese President Xi Jinping’s strategic vision and firm commitment to climate change and sustainable development. He noted that China’s significant achievements in the green economy are not only important for the country itself but also globally. China strongly supports multilateralism and actively participates in the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and global climate projects. Silva expressed full confidence that China has the capacity to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.
Source: Cai-Hashim-Wang Haiman, China Media Group.