Guy Ryder, UN Under-Secretary-General for Policy, was among those impressed by the city"s development. Having recently visited Shanghai and observed its urban transformation, Ryder told the Global Times that Xiong"an offered another striking example of China"s approach to planning.

　　"I am deeply impressed by its large-scale, long-term and highly ambitious urban-planning vision," Ryder said, noting that the city"s significance lies in its ability to look beyond immediate needs.

　　"It embodies forward-looking policymaking: when tackling present-day problems, it keeps future generations firmly in mind," he said. "Few cities are built around such a consistent underlying vision and logic."

　　Sunday marked the 55th anniversary of the restoration of the lawful seat of the People"s Republic of China at the UN, a milestone with profound significance for China, the UN and the wider world. Ryder also placed his observations in the wider context of China"s development and its role in the international system.

　　He noted that China"s remarkable economic achievements have benefited its people while making the country an important engine of global growth. At a time of rising protectionism and economic uncertainty, China"s commitment to openness and international economic cooperation remains significant, he said.

　　He also highlighted the connection between China-proposed initiatives and the work of the UN, citing the Global Development Initiative as an example of efforts that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals agreed upon by UN member states.

　　An aerial view of the Xiong"an Business Service Center in Xiong"an New Area, North China"s Hebei Province Photos on this page: VCG

　　Bring Xiong"an"s achievements back home