Chinese Premier Urges Acceleration of Afforestation and Energy Innovation Initiatives
Hohhot, The Gulf Observer: Chinese Premier Li Qiang has emphasized the need for concrete advancements in the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP) and the sustainable development of the country’s energy sector. Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made these remarks during his visit to the Ningxia Hui and Inner Mongolia autonomous regions from Tuesday to Thursday.
The TSFP, initiated in 1978, is the world’s largest afforestation project aimed at combating desertification in China’s northwest, north, and northeast regions, with completion targeted by 2050. In Yinchuan City, Ningxia’s capital, Premier Li commended the region’s achievements in desertification control, urging further optimization of regional cooperation and diversified development approaches to benefit local communities.
Li also highlighted the importance of energy technology research, especially in enhancing the clean processing of coal resources and utilizing rooftop spaces to promote photovoltaic power. He called for expanded policy support to harness the potential of new energy technologies.
In Inner Mongolia’s Ordos and Hohhot, Premier Li conducted field research on forest belt construction, soil and water conservation, dairy technology, and ecological innovation. He reiterated the importance of creating a robust ecological security barrier in northern China and encouraged enterprises to invest in basic research that promotes technological and industrial progress in these areas.
Li’s inspections included visits to a thermal power plant and a project integrating desertification control with renewable energy initiatives. He underscored the need to integrate traditional and renewable energy sources to maximize efficiency and ensure winter heating. Premier Li also called for enhanced coal utilization practices, aiming to improve power generation efficiency while ensuring sustainable, environmentally friendly energy solutions.
