The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China (MOFCOM) today signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to explore deepening their collaboration and support for developing countries. The key element of this agreement is the proposed establishment of a UNDP Global Center for Sustainable Development (the Center) in the City of Shanghai.
The announcement, made at UNDP Headquarters in New York, marks a significant step towards advancing international collaboration in support of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and UNDP’s 60th anniversary.
Focus on Green and Digital Transformation
The planned Shanghai Global Center for Sustainable Development (SGCSD) is envisaged to serve as a unique platform within UNDP’s global network and technical expertise. Its primary mission will be to accelerate green economic transitions, including through the crucial areas of digital economy, trade, and sustainable finance, to help developing countries achieve sustainable development transformations.
The partnership leverages the 45 years of collaboration between UNDP and China, working together across various phases of China’s development.
Haoliang Xu, UNDP’s Acting Administrator stated, “The Centre has the potential to become a major contributor to accelerating sustainable development progress as we approach 2030. By drawing on the city’s experience and long tradition of innovation, we aim to support developing countries through demand-driven policy research, capacity building, co-creation of solutions, and by mobilizing and aligning resources for sustainable development.”
Sharing Development Experience
China’s support for the Centre underscores its commitment to South-South cooperation, focusing on sharing expertise in critical modern development areas.
Wang Wentao, Hon. Minister of Commerce, China stated, “China supports the establishment of a UNDP Global Center for Sustainable Development in Shanghai. China is willing to share its development experience in areas such as green transition, digital economy, and trade. This responds to the urgent needs of developing countries worldwide to achieve green and digital transformation, and will better help developing countries accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”
The new Centre will provide new forms of collaboration and partnerships, positioning Shanghai as a hub for innovative solutions that can be scaled globally to help nations advance the 2030 Agenda.
