Executive Director of UN-Habitat: Cities are the key to overcoming poverty

In an exclusive interview with CGTN, UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach praised China's success in lifting 800 million people out of poverty. She stressed that China's experience can be a valuable inspiration for Africa, Latin America and poorer parts of Asia. Cities, she said, are a decisive force in the fight against poverty.

Rossbach stressed that urbanisation must mean more than just economic growth - it must create harmonious spaces where people have access to housing, education and healthcare. "Living in cities where jobs, health services and opportunities are available is essential to overcoming poverty," she said.

According to her, cities should be places not only of economic opportunity, but also of culture, sport, recreation and green spaces that allow people to live in harmony with nature and with each other.

CMG