Dr. Peter Haymond, Consul General of the American Consulate General in Chengdu, Sichuan province, visited Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG) on April 12. Prof. Chen Jin, director of XTBG, met with the Consul General and his wife. Dr. Peter Haymond also met and talked with scientists of American citizenship working in XTBG. 

Prof. Chen Jin introduced the role of XTBG in regional biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration, focusing on environmental-friendly rubber plantation, plan of zero extinction of plant species, sustainable use and development of tropical plant resources. He also talked about cooperation with international colleagues. 

Director of XTBG’s Center for Integrative Conservation introduced such long-term training programs as “Advanced Fieldcourse in Ecology and Conservation – XTBG” and “XTBG-OTS Climate Change Field Course”.  

“XTBG has become an international and open island for scientists, with scientists and students from 20 more countries and regions working here,” said Peter Haymond. He also acknowledged the important role of XTBG in promoting regional biodiversity conservation and local development. The American scientific personnel were encouraged to achieve more on this scientific island. 

Dr. Peter Haymond visited the Central Laboratory, Orchid Exhibition, and living collections. 

Chen Jin (L) talking with Consul General Peter Haymond (R) 

Peter Haymond  talking with XTBG scientists  

Peter Haymond at Central Laboratory 

Peter Haymond  at the Orchid Exhibition