'Dr. Qiu Baoxing was responsible for the strategic direction of this development in his function as Chinese Vice Minister of Construction (ret.). When we met, I was most taken aback by his statement - which was completely unexpected for me - that sustainable development would not be possible with regulations alone. We need to build awareness, to advance mentalities. If the solutions are smart and serve creation, and if people understand the need and connections, they will do well. The added value of work done with commitment cannot be paid for with money.

Qiu is an excellent authority on international urban planning. Having studied at Tongji University in Shanghai, he has subsequently been responsible for a large number of researches and authored a number of books on the subject of architecture and urban development. Qiu is at home in many universities internationally and is one of the most respected international leaders in Sustainable Urban Development. In 2015, he was awarded the Chairman's Award from The World Green Building Council.

In his current role as direct advisor to President Xi Jinping and founder of the Chinese Society for Urban Studies, it is incumbent upon him to develop the vision of future livable urban development in China.' - Wolfgang Frey