On Jan 8, Chang Zheng, vice-chairperson of the China Disabled Persons' Federation (CDPF), met with a delegation led by Geraldine McCafferty, deputy head of mission at the British Embassy in China.
Relevant officials from the CDPF's Department of International Liaison and Department of Sports were also present.
Chang welcomed McCafferty on behalf of the CDPF and briefed her on the federation's work and China's disability cause. He highlighted the special attention and high priority China places on this cause. The Chinese government, adhering to a people-centered development philosophy, has integrated the disability cause into the overall plan for national economic and social development. The legal and regulatory framework safeguarding the rights and interests of persons with disabilities has been steadily improved, with achievements made in rehabilitation, education, employment, culture, sports, and the development of a barrier-free environment.
Chang noted that the UK has accumulated rich experience in areas such as social security, inclusive education, rehabilitation assistive devices, as well as sports and culture. China is willing to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning with the UK to jointly explore higher-quality and more effective service models for persons with disabilities and promote their integrated development in both countries.
McCafferty commended China's accomplishments in safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities and advancing the disability cause. She outlined the UK's initiatives for supporting independent living for persons with disabilities, and highlighted the potential for UK-China cooperation in this field. The British Embassy in China is committed to facilitating practical cooperation between relevant departments, professional institutions, and social organizations in both countries.