By Yang Xiao

Ambassador of EU's China mission Markus Ederer delivered his expectation for closer collaboration between China and Europe in the field of sustainable urbanization, in his recent press conference remarks in Beijing. 
 

Markus Ederer, ambassador of EU's China mission made remarks in a press conference held in Beijing, January 16, 2013.

"Sustainable urbanization concerns not only politics and economy, but also society and environment. Europe's urbanization rate is 80 percent; China's is about 50 percent and is moving toward 70-80 percent in 2020. The EU leads the world in urbanization, and China is the largest developing country with rapid progress in this respect. We want to share our expertise and knowledge", stated Mr. Ederer.

The ambassador said that Sino-EU cooperation in sustainable urbanization started from 2012, when the visiting Vice Premier Li Keqiang signed "The Joint Declaration on the EU-China Partnership on Sustainable Urbanization" with European Union President Jose Barroso in Brussels. The Declaration is comprised of a legion of practical issues, such as personnel movability, carbon-neutral buildings, water utility, waste treatment, etc.

He then unveiled some fruitful achievements jointly gained by the two sides. "The Mayor's Conference held in Brussels this year, attended by city-planners, business sectors, think tanks and universities, has offered an opportunity for all-round communications on how to advance the construction of China-EU urbanization partnership and achieve sustainable urban development."

Mr. Ederer also indicated some cooperation projects in 2013, together with funds provided by the European Union, to help enhance the capabilities of Chinese local administrations dealing with challenges of urbanization.

"The 2nd Mayor's Conference will be held in China this year, and I expect to see more exchanges of ideas and solutions regarding the issue of urbanization", the ambassador said.