For 40 years, China has been an active part of the United Nations (UN), especially in the efforts of poverty elimination and sustainable development. An exhibition hailing this milestone opened Tuesday in Beijing. 

The MOFCOM/UN in China 40 Years Exhibition highlights the results of dialogue and cooperation among the UN development agencies. The UN began its journey in China in 1979, following China's reform and opening-up. From humanitarian aid to poverty alleviation to industrialization and public health, China's partnership with the UN has successfully contributed to the nation's overall development.

Nicholas Rosellini, the UN resident coordinator in China, said, "Today, China has grown to become the world's second largest economy. With only 1.7 percent of people in rural areas living under the poverty line, China is on track to meet its target of eliminating extreme poverty in rural areas by 2020. In this context, the UN is no longer a donor providing development assistance for basic needs, but a development partner that can provide advanced policy advice and share international experience."

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) began facilitating South-South cooperation in 1996. China was one of the first countries that participated in the process, and pledged donations of 50 million U.S. dollars in 2014, and another 30 million four years later.

"Next month, we will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Buenos Aires plan of action for promoting and implementing technical cooperation among developed countries, apart from taking the perspective of South-South cooperation. Our ambition for the future should be strengthening our partnership in order to achieve tangible resources in line with our committees," said Osman Elnor, the African Union (AU) representative ambassador.

The UN is also further enhancing cooperation with China on its increased engagements in Global Partnerships through South-South cooperation and initiatives such as the Belt and Road.

Through these Global Partnerships, China has an opportunity to contribute to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda not only within its borders, but also globally.