Grynspan cited Li's words and said this has sent out a positive signal that the new leadership will better engage civil societies to deliver better services.

The UNDP and authorities in Ningbo, Zhejiang province, signed a framework agreement on Friday to boost sustainable development.

One project will involve the setting up of agricultural cooperatives in rural areas to support production and living standards in selected towns.

Ningbo Yinzhou Bank Welfare Foundation has agreed to provide $2 million to fund the project.

The UNDP also plans to work with the Ningbo civil affairs bureau to run pilot projects to empower community-based organizations and encourage public-private partnership in social services.

Liu Qi, mayor of Ningbo, said the city has encountered pressing issues, including imbalances between rural and urban areas, but cooperation, such as these initiatives, is the way forward.

Thanks to rapid economic growth, China has reduced poverty and has greatly improved living standards, Grynspan said.

However, "growth will be halted if environmental degradation continues", she said.

Grynspan praised projects to boost the low-carbon economy.

"We have witnessed China's incredible investment in renewable energy, as it has become the second-largest producer of wind power in the world and the biggest exporter of photovoltaic solar panels," she said.

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