From the signing of the Partnership Agreement between the China-International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (CNICIMOD) and International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development（ICIMOD） during the board meeting in Kunming in November 2015, the first ever CNICIMOD Steering Committee meeting was held in Chengdu on 30 March 2016. The meeting emphasized cooperation, coordination and co-design between ICIMOD and China activities to enhance the partnership between the two parties.  

Wang Zhenyu, Division Director of Bureau of International Cooperation of CAS, said that the CNICIMOD is an open platform facilitated by CAS, and will bring together a network of cooperation partners in China supportive of ICIMOD’s mission and vision. David Molden, Director General of ICIMOD, said the meeting was an important milestone improving coordination and increasing ownership and visibility of ICIMOD’s activities in China and thanked CAS for their continuing support. 

CNICIMOD Steering Committee Meeting (by IMHE)

The meeting deliberated on individual and joint roles and responsibilities between the two organizations to improve: regular communication, exchange and sharing of information through respective websites and networks; and introducing a CNICIMOD newsletter both in English and Chinese to include the China-ICIMOD Partnership Report for wider circulation. Other joint activities included: the facilitation of ICIMOD activities in China, capacity building activities, exchange of staff and faculty, fellowship opportunities in China, and providing linkages to emerging partnerships.  

Cui Peng, Secretary General of CNICIMOD, made a summary. He emphasized the importance of THE BELT AND ROAD launched by Chinese government and suggested that the two parties should grab this fantastic opportunity to conduct joint activities like training courses, joint researches etc. David Molden, on behalf of ICIMOD, expressed his interest and willingness to join this event. 

The next CNICIMOD Steering Committee will be held at ICIMOD in Kathmandu during in the spring of 2017.