Hohhot – capital of North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region – and Mongolia's Selenge Province celebrated the fifth anniversary of their sister-city partnership via an online event on Dec 26.

The milestone marked a new chapter in their collaboration, focusing on combating desertification and fostering sustainable development.

Since forming ties in 2019, the two regions have engaged in frequent exchanges, yielding substantive positive outcomes.

In 2024, they launched the Hohhot Friendship Forest project in Selenge, contributing to Mongolia's One Billion Trees initiative. The project highlights joint efforts in reforestation, sand control and green development.

During the event, agreements were signed to deepen collaboration, including sharing expertise in sand control, drought-resistant vegetation and ecological restoration. Plans for joint training programs, early warning systems for sandstorms and regular communication mechanisms were also set in motion.

Hohhot shared its successful practice in forest systems construction and wind erosion controls, offering insights into localized solutions for global desertification challenges.

The event not only celebrated achievements, but also outlined future cooperation, emphasizing ecological and cultural exchanges.

Overall, Hohhot is said to remain committed to enhancing bilateral ties and contributing to a shared vision of prosperity and sustainability – reinforcing China's role in fostering regional and global environmental collaboration.