China's first-ever Model United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development commenced on July 17, 2023, at Shenzhen MSU-BIT University. Co-sponsored by the Western Returned Scholars Foundation, the Working Committee of the Partnership for UN Sustainable Development Goals, TaKung Pao/Takungpao.com, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Youth Association, this international educational event aimed to nurture global talents and promote sustainable development.
With a focus on addressing global development and ecological civilization construction, the conference brought together over 400 young students who acted as diplomatic representatives of various countries or political entities. They engaged in discussions revolving around eight academic themes, including energy technology, natural environment, food safety, climate change, and sustainable cities, among others, in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.
Throughout the three-day event, participants analyzed topics such as the European energy crisis, recycle economy, and the plan to apply for the Maritime Silk Road world heritage. Their discussions and understanding of their roles led to the proposal of practical and universally accepted policy suggestions and action plans.
Mo Wenxiu, member of the Standing Committee of the 12th National People's Congress and the former Director General of the Western Returned Scholars Foundation, highlighted the significance of the conference as a crucial activity under the "top talent training" fund by the foundation. The fund's aim is to cultivate top talents with a "Chinese heart" but international vision and competence.
Mo expressed her hope that the Model United Nations Conference would serve as a training ground for young people to actively participate in global governance, an internship place for international affairs, and a big classroom to enhance global competence. It is intended to cultivate a group of top-notch talents with international perspectives and proficiency in international rules and affairs.
During the opening ceremony, student representatives and youth initiators, including Lin Zibin, Jin Jiayu, Mo Xiaoqiao, Wu Linlin, Lin Zhitong, Li Chuyan, and Yuan Tianlan, delivered speeches emphasizing the importance of adapting to the diverse global context of the new era. They stressed the need to broaden international vision and build a community with a shared future for mankind. The Model UN initiative aimed to empower young people with the tools to become valuable contributors to the world and to foster their belief in creating a sustainable future for all.
