Put development at center of int'l agenda: Chinese minister

China's ecology and environment minister on Thursday called on countries to put development at the center of the international agenda.

The implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development faces unprecedented challenges as the once-in-a-century pandemic is still raging, governance deficits in areas like climate change remain, and global economic recovery is weak, said Huang Runqiu, the minister.

First, there is a need to stay committed to development, he told a ministerial roundtable of the High-level Political Forum on sustainable development, convened under the auspices of the UN Economic and Social Council.

"Only through continuous development can the people's dream for a better life and social stability be realized. We must put development at the center of the international agenda, implement the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and pursue development in real earnest and promote development in a concerted manner," he said.

Second, there is a need to resolutely promote a green and low-carbon transition. At present, the world is undergoing emerging food and energy security crises. In this context, it is important not to waver or even reverse the course of green transition, said Huang.

Third, there is a need to adhere to the path of cooperation. Countries around the world should jointly build a global development partnership and leave no country or person behind, he said.

China will uphold the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, actively promote global sustainable development, and provide more public goods for the world. China will work with the international community to realize stronger, greener, and healthier global development, he said.