A delegation from UNESCO recently visited the School of Landscape Architecture at Beijing Forestry University to facilitate in-depth international discussions on heritage conservation and international cooperation between both sides.

The delegation was led by Shahbaz Khan, Director of the UNESCO East Asia Regional Office, and joined by Global Geopark evaluator Zheng Yuan and Assistant Coordinator Li Weizhao from the UNESCO Beijing Office. Leaders and representatives of BFU faculty and students participated in the meeting.

The deputy director of the Office for International Relastions, BFU, extended a warm welcome to the delegation. Introducing BFU’s strengths in forestry, landscape architecture, and ecological research, he highlighted the role of the BFU-ICCROM Joint Laboratory as a vital platform for advancing international collaboration and contributing to global heritage preservation efforts.

Leaders of the School of Landscape Architecture outlined the school’s achievements in talent cultivation, scientific research and international relations. She noted that the school, through the Belt and Road Initiative, has attracted students from around the world and looks forward to expanding cooperation with UNESCO in heritage and landscape conservation.

The Director of the BFU-ICCROM Joint Laboratory for Heritage and Landscape Conservation reviewed the collaboration between the School of Landscape Architecture and ICCROM in establishing the joint laboratory. They expressed gratitude to the UNESCO East Asia Office and the two experts for their support and looked forward to continued collaboration with UNESCO in the future.

Shahbaz Khan shared UNESCO's mission and vision, emphasizing that protecting cultural and natural heritage is not just about preserving the past but about building a sustainable future. He highlighted how heritage connects communities, fosters identity, and enhances international understanding, all of which are essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. He encouraged the school to continue its efforts in exploring, innovating, and making meaningful contributions to heritage conservation.

Zheng Yuan elaborated on UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGp), which, as an important part of the SDGs, focuses on preserving geological, cultural, and natural heritage while supporting sustainable development.

During their visit, the UNESCO representatives delivered academic lectures. Shahbaz Khan explored the links between world heritage conservation and sustainable development goals, while Zheng Yuan discussed the evaluation and promotion of UNESCO Global Geoparks. Both sessions sparked vibrant discussions among attendees on topics including heritage preservation, education, and sustainable development.

Written by Cao Xin
Translated and edited by Song He
Reviewed by Yu Yangyang