International experts: China’s experience in poverty reduction key to SDGs

CIIC-IPRCC delegation and SDC discuss stronger international cooperation on poverty reduction. [Photo by Yang Xiaoxiao]

Jean-François Cuénod, Deputy Head Domain South Cooperation, SDC, pointed out that China was determined to eliminate extreme poverty by 2020 and implement the Paris Climate Agreement, making it a world leader in both poverty reduction and climate change.

The experts agreed that China could inspire further solutions to poverty elimination through enhanced knowledge sharing and international cooperation. Markus Dürst, Specialist of East Asia Division, SDC, maintained that China should also emphasize exchanges and cooperation with development assistance agencies in developed countries, while building projects in developing countries in Africa. “China has made remarkable progress in poverty alleviation. But I notice that you do much, say little and share even less.” Markus said.

In this context, the Global Poverty Reduction & Inclusive Growth Portal (GPIG) has drawn attention and participation from international experts. Initiated by the World Bank and supported by ADB, the portal is co-hosted and co-managed by IPRCC and CIIC. It aims to promote exchange and cooperation on global poverty reduction through knowledge sharing. Martha Mueller Guicciardini, Head of the World Bank's Office in Italy, remarked that GPIG is a user-friendly platform with a simple yet practical structure and a wealth of content. A proposal was tabled for active promotion of the portal, so as to reach more research institutions and a wider audience.

CIIC-IPRCC delegation visits FAO headquarters and attends the FAO Council Side Event.

Benjamin Davis, Strategic Programme Leader for Poverty Reduction, FAO, held that he was happy to see what GPIG had achieved. He disclosed that FAO would join hands with CIIC to launch a program called Innovation Lab, exploring new ways to promote China’s experience in poverty alleviation.

Umberto Vattani, the Governor of the triad of the Venice International University system, commented that GPIG was a window for the world to learn from China’s experience in poverty reduction. He called for stronger cooperation with the platform and urged more young people to get engaged in its content building.