China proposes sustainable global transport scheme

China has put forth a plan to enhance global sustainable development in the transportation sector, which will partially focus on improving infrastructure and ensuring stable international logistics supply chains.

"Enhancing global transportation cooperation and promoting sustainable development is more critical now than ever to ensure the stability of global supply chains," said Vice-Premier He Lifeng, highlighting the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, extreme weather and aging infrastructure that threaten sustainable transportation efforts.

He made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the Global Sustainable Transport Forum, which kicked off in Beijing on Wednesday.

Under the theme "Sustainable Transport: Logistics Connecting the World," the two-day event, hosted by the Ministry of Transport, aims to foster international collaboration in transportation.

He also reaffirmed China's commitment to increasing investment in transportation infrastructure to stimulate economic growth in impoverished regions. The country expressed its willingness to share successful experiences in rural road development and promote collaboration with other nations.

The forum includes a plenary session, a ministerial forum and four thematic discussions. Key reports to be released during the forum include the Global Vision for Sustainable Transportation, the China Sustainable Transport Development Report (2023), the Global Sustainable Transport Development Research Report (2023) and the Global Best Practices Initiative for Sustainable Transportation.

"We believe that the implementation of reforms in the transportation sector will further enhance the quality of China's infrastructure and service capabilities, providing greater certainty and stability for international logistics supply chains," he said. "We are eager to learn from other countries' experiences and share our own reform practices."

The initiative for sustainable transportation has gained widespread recognition among international communities.

The forum is incredibly valuable for the developing world because it fosters meaningful engagement among diverse audiences and participating countries, said Kim Young Tae, secretary-general of the International Transport Forum.

He also noted the improvement of the air quality in Beijing, highlighting the Chinese government's strong efforts toward decarbonization and enhancing environmental conditions.

Regarding sustainable transportation development, Kim noted the growing presence of electric vehicles in China, indicating a significant shift away from fossil fuel cars.

Abdul Aleem Khan, federal minister of Pakistan's Communications, Privatization and Board of Investment, emphasized the need for improved connectivity between urban and rural areas, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan where inadequate rural roads hinder economic development and exacerbate inequality.

"Sustainable solutions must be reliable, affordable and environmentally friendly to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas," he added.

Tanzania's Minister of Transport Makame Mnyaa Mbarawa noted the long-standing cooperation between China and Tanzania, particularly in transport infrastructure. He mentioned that Chinese companies are currently involved in building a railway in his country.

The forum, which is being held for the second time, has attracted significant attention and yielded positive outcomes.

"Our aim is to create a platform to improve global transportation governance, promote sustainable cooperation and facilitate the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome more countries to join us in pooling wisdom and resources to create strong momentum for advancing global sustainable transportation," said Li Xiaopeng, China's minister of transport.

China's transportation sector has made remarkable strides. As of the end of last year, the country's high-speed rail network and freeway system were extended to 45,000 kilometers and 184,000 kilometers, respectively. Additionally, China has 38 airports with annual passenger throughput exceeding 10 million.

In addition to the development within the country, China has also fostered global cooperation in sustainable transportation by means such as signing multiple bilateral agreements on international road and air transportation, as well as building railways abroad.

"Our work in transportation seeks to overcome geographical barriers and weave the bonds that connect the world," Li said. "We must engage with the global community and keep pace with the times, walking the path of connectivity and mutual benefit. This will enable sustainable transportation achievements to better serve people worldwide and collectively promote the building of a shared future for humanity."