China's desertification control achievements praised at UNCCD Conference

Andrea Meza Murillo, deputy executive secretary of the UNCCD, said she was impressed with China's experience in the combination of sand control efforts and economic outcomes, as well as green energy.

In the Three-North Shelterbelt Program, regions utilize the unique resources of sandy areas to develop industries such as traditional Chinese medicinal herbs, high-quality forage grass, economic orchards, desert tourism and so on, to support poverty alleviation efforts and rural revitalization, according to the National Forestry and Grassland Administration.

"So the China model is really showing that you can have development with these greenways," she said.

Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chang Hua said that in recent years, China has collaborated with Saudi Arabia on projects such as solar energy and new energy vehicles, continuously exchanging experiences to prevent desertification.

He said that near Saudi Arabia's Jeddah city, one of the largest solar power plants in the Middle East is currently under construction, being built by a Chinese company. Chinese renewable energy companies, especially those specializing in solar power generation, are highly popular in Saudi Arabia as well.

"Saudi Arabia has put forward the initiatives of 'Green Middle East' and 'Green Saudi Arabia', which align with our green development principles. Against the backdrop of the Belt and Road Initiative, green development stands out as an excellent area for cooperation between us," he said.