It was a privilege to attend the seminar hosted by the National Academy of Forestry and Grassland Administration (NAFGA), held from April 22 to May 5, 2026. The seminar, focused on "Forest Law Enforcement and Governance under the Global Development Initiative for Developing Countries," was both rewarding and enlightening. The invaluable invitation from NAFGA, its warm hospitality, seamless organization, and the sessions delivered by distinguished experts will always remain unforgettable. The seminar provided a platform to discuss China's impressive strides in biodiversity conservation and climate action while allowing us to reflect on how these practices can be adapted back home through international cooperation. This piece deals with the core insights, experiences, and observations gathered during this productive study visit.
The Great Journey of China
Reflecting on the entirety of this seminar, it is evident that China is advancing on a relentless socialist path with remarkable momentum and determination. Chairman Mao Zedong once remarked that "the people are the creators of history." Witnessing the Chinese people translate this philosophy into practice was truly inspiring. My observations during the trip led me to conclude that China's democratic model is distinct because it is fundamentally oriented toward its citizens and dedicated to the interests of the majority. Unlike models in which democracy often serves a restricted elite, "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics" emphasizes the collective good.
The story of China's rise is unique. Mao Zedong secured its independence, Deng Xiaoping opened the doors to economic reform, and Xi Jinping is now leading the nation toward becoming a global power free from poverty. The scale of China's socio-economic transformation is unmatched. Uniting and meeting the aspirations of 1.4 billion people under a shared vision is a historic achievement. Furthermore, by eradicating poverty for nearly one-fifth of the world's population, China has made a significant contribution to global poverty reduction. On February 25, 2021, President Xi Jinping announced that China had completely eliminated extreme poverty, marking a major achievement and a significant contribution to global poverty alleviation. It is clear that the Chinese people place immense faith in the strategic steps taken under President Xi's leadership. Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC)—the world's largest, most powerful, and most unified political force—China continues its steady and relentless march forward.
15th South Asia Economic Summit emphasizes on green transformat...
Ecological Resolve and NAFGA's Initiatives
China is not merely pursuing industrialization in the name of economic growth. Instead, it has demonstrated a profound sense of responsibility toward the historic task of mitigating climate change and preserving a beautiful planet for future generations. Participating in this seminar provided us with deep insights into China's practices and initiatives in the fields of environmental protection and ecology. Furthermore, we had the valuable opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on Xi Jinping's Thought on Ecological Civilization and how this vision contributes to addressing global environmental challenges. President Xi famously stated, "Green mountains and clear waters are equal to mountains of gold and silver." This sentiment reflects his profound concern for and steadfast commitment to environmental conservation and biodiversity protection.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental protection through rigorous institutional frameworks and the rule of law, China has spearheaded several landmark initiatives. As highlighted during the NAFGA seminar, China has established a comprehensive legal framework consisting of more than 30 national laws, 100 administrative regulations, and over 1,000 local regulations—an extensive system that safeguards critical natural ecosystems and ecological resources. NAFGA has also organized numerous seminars on vital topics, including forest law enforcement and governance, sustainable forest management, and the management of national parks and nature reserves. The training also covers the UN Forest Instrument, wildlife conservation, forest project development under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), biodiversity conservation, climate change, CITES implementation, and the protection of endangered species.
Green Initiatives and Our Field Visit
Our field visit provided a valuable blend of theoretical, technical, and practical knowledge on environmental conservation and sustainable development. We explored how modern tools—such as satellite monitoring, GPS tracking, and coordinated forest management—can significantly improve disaster response and forest protection. We were honored to attend the International Rose Convention at the Nanyang Rose Expo Park. Beyond the convention, visiting Nanyang itself was unforgettable, as the city truly lives up to its reputation as the "Capital of Roses." At the Jigongshan Forest Farm in Nanyang, we witnessed an extraordinary demonstration of firefighting and fire prevention conducted by the Henan Provincial Forestry Bureau. Their dedication and advanced techniques in forest safety were deeply impressive.
Our field visit to the Qingcheng Tea Farm was another highlight of the trip. The landscape reminded us of the beautiful tea gardens of Ilam, Nepal. We traced the history of tea from its ancient origins to its global expansion and observed the entire production and processing cycle firsthand. This experience offered valuable lessons that can be applied to develop Nepal's tea industry. Similarly, we also visited the South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWDP). It was incredible to witness this unprecedented engineering feat, which transports water from southern China to millions of people in northern China, including those in Beijing. These field visits enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of China's environmental initiatives. We returned with a clearer vision of the strategies and technologies that can be adapted to strengthen conservation and sustainable development in our own country.
Collaboration for a Shared Future
Most of the challenges the world faces today are shared. The impacts of climate change pose serious threats to biodiversity conservation and the environment. Addressing these global challenges requires sincere cooperation and collective action. We need a world free from poverty and guided by humanity. We must leave a beautiful and safe Earth for future generations. To achieve this, everyone must work hand in hand and shoulder to shoulder. In this regard, China's initiatives are commendable. We can work together toward shared goals and common solutions. NAFGA has not only provided us with valuable lessons on biodiversity conservation and forest law enforcement but has also inspired us to seek a new roadmap for sustainable development. Indeed, Nepal-China relations are centuries old and deeply rooted. Our friendship will continue to endure. Let us work together for a shared future.
The author is a former Executive Vice-President of the National Youth Council under the Government of Nepal.
