Once on the brink of drying up, Huangqihai Lake in north China's Inner Mongolia is gradually recovering, with its waters and wildlife showing signs of renewal.

On October 16, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the lake's nature reserve, emphasizing respect for nature and a restoration approach that puts natural recovery first.

Behind the progress are years of conservation work.

Locals vow to press ahead in the ecological restoration marathon, safeguarding mother nature and benefiting all.