Chinese science experts discuss global issues at special consultative meeting

Over 100 members of the China Association for Science and Technology's (CAST) UN Special Consultative Committees and international science organization experts met last week at the China Science and Technology Hall to discuss pressing global issues.

The meeting focused on topics including disaster risk reduction research, heritage protection, and sustainable cities.

Luo Hui, a member of CAST's Leading Party Members Group and head of international cooperation, delivered opening remarks. Zhu Baoxia, vice-president and secretary-general of China Daily, also addressed the gathering. The meeting was chaired by a representative from CAST's International Cooperation Department.

Committee chairs Guo Huadong (Disaster Risk Research), Gong Ke (Information and Communication Technology), and Shi Nan (acting chair, Sustainable Cities, Communities, and Heritage Protection) presented keynote speeches, sharing their experiences in UN consultative work and proposing future initiatives.

A report by the China International Science and Technology Exchange Center summarized the past year's activities and outlined the 2024 work plan for the CAST UN Special Consultative Committees.

Since obtaining special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council in July 2004, CAST has facilitated Chinese scientists' active participation in the UN agenda and global science and technology governance. Currently, 10 committees with 327 experts contribute to UN efforts. In 2023 alone, these committees participated in 14 UN substantive meetings, held 8 thematic sideline events, and organized 4 exhibitions.