November 1, Beijing – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Achim Steiner today met in Beijing with Li Keqiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China.

Against the backdrop of the 40th anniversary of China’s Reform and Opening Up, the meeting marks a historic milestone in UNDP’s long-standing cooperation with the Chinese government. Mr. Steiner expressed his appreciation for Premier Li's support to UNDP’s work. He added that UNDP continues to count on China’s leadership role in supporting multilateral engagement, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), innovation, piloting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and South-South Cooperation. UNDP will continue to be a dedicated partner to China and ready to share its development experiences with other developing countries.

The Administrator also acknowledged the supportive meetings with UNDP’s ministerial partners, including the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Science and Technology.

Premier Li recognized the contributions that UNDP has made in China’s development since it opened its China office in 1979. He also highlighted the continued need for development cooperation with China as the largest developing country.

The meeting is the highlight of Mr. Steiner’s first official visit to China as the head of UNDP. The visit from 28 October to 3 November also includes high-level discussions on UNDP’s strategic partnership with China, the reform of the UN development system, and China’s contributions to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development both at home and around the world.

During his visit, Mr. Steiner is also co-chairing the annual forum for the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED) and hosted a reception with partners in China on the future of development needs.

Check out the other highlights of UNDP Administrator's first official trip to China here!