What they say

“We need to be concerned with the fight against desertification and we need a common framework. This is the first time for China to host such a global environmental conference . ... And China can show its leadership to make the world move forward, to take measures, to stop degradation.”

Daniel Calleja Crespo, director general of UN’s directorategeneral for environment

“What we saw yesterday is very impressive. They are very, very useful experiences.

What has been done here in Inner Mongolia sets an example to the world to follow in facing desertification. We need China to support Africa to implement this brilliant example.”

Almami Dampha, African Union’s policy officer for forestry and land management

“To see people converting a desert into an oasis is to see a miracle happening. This is

a miracle that turns a nightmare into a beautiful vision, a vision full of happy and hopeful prospects.”

Antonis Samaras, former prime minister of Greece

“It’s very important to bring to the world possible examples, such as what China has done to fight against desertification. China is one of most successful nations on the planet in combating sand and storm, reducing desertification.” Erik Solheim, executive

director of UN Environment Programme

“It’s very impressive to see the large scale of regreening the desert, especially in Inner Mongolia. I’ve visited some sites in Ordos and witnessed a lot of changes that happened to the local landscape. It’s a great achievement. And we hope that we can bring some of such lessons from China to Africa.”

Magda Lovei, practice manager of Africa Global Practice II, a World Bank agency