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UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in China, James George, delivered opening remarks at the 2024 Gonghe Rural Revitalization through Promotion of Commerce and Sustainable Development Project Launch in Qinghai, China.
Dear Mr. Zhang Yi, Deputy Director General, China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges (CICETE)
Dear Mr. Geng Deng Jia, Member of the Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefectural Party Standing Committee and Secretary of the Gonghe County Party Committee
Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon.
I am delighted to be here in Gonghe County as we mark the launch of the UNDP-CICETE-Gonghe Rural Revitalization through Promotion of Commerce and Sustainable Development Project.
On behalf of UNDP, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the China International Center for Economic and Technical Exchanges, the Qinghai Provincial Government, the Gonghe County Government, and all our partners who have made this initiative possible.
Rural revitalization is at the heart of sustainable development. Across China, local industries—especially agriculture—are the foundation of rural economies, providing livelihoods for over 169 million people.
"Rural revitalization is not just about economic progress—it must also be inclusive and sustainable."
In Qinghai, specialty products such as yak meat, highland barley, and rapeseed have long been central to local communities. However, limited logistics infrastructure has hindered farmers from fully benefiting from their hard work. Without modern storage and efficient transportation, farmers face higher costs, lost produce, and fewer opportunities to reach larger markets.
Today, we take a step toward changing that reality. This joint initiative will support the construction of a logistics warehouse in Yilangtang Village, a facility that will help reduce post-harvest losses, improve supply chain efficiency, and ensure that Qinghai’s high-quality agricultural products reach consumers faster and fresher.
Beyond infrastructure, this warehouse represents an opportunity for farmers to earn more, for local industries to grow, and for rural communities to thrive.
But rural revitalization is not just about economic progress—it must also be inclusive and sustainable. Qinghai is not only an agricultural hub but also a vital ecological safegaurd, playing a key role in protecting the headwaters of major rivers and preserving fragile highland ecosystems. As we invest in infrastructure, it is critical that we ensure development is resilient and environmentally responsible, protecting both people’s livelihoods and our planet’s natural ecosystems.
Moving forward, UNDP, together with our partners, plans to expand support in Gonghe County and Hainan Prefecture, further strengthening rural industries and creating new opportunities for local communities. Through these efforts, we aim to develop practical, scalable solutions that not only contribute to the region’s long-term development but also serve as valuable models for other areas in China’s western regions and beyond.
In closing, I would like to reiterate that today’s inception is more than just a project launch—it is a commitment to building a greener future where no one is left behind.
With just five years remaining to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, let us continue working together to unlock new opportunities, empower rural communities, and create lasting prosperity for generations to come.
Thank you.
