Meeting time: October 9-12, 2018

Venue: Koktokay Global Geopark

Jingpohu Lake Global Geopark Participants: Zhang Chunmin, Qin Guang

Meeting details:

The 2018 World Geopark Application and Revalidation Seminar was held in the Koktokay World Geopark. During the seminar, seven representatives from the Koktokay World Geopark, Huanggang-Dabieshan World Geopark, Guangwushan-Nuoshuihe World Geopark, Shennongjia World Geopark, Dali Cangshan World Geopark, Mount Tai World Geopark, and the Koktokay No. 3 Mine shared their experiences on geopark application and revalidation. Experts freely exchanged views and offered insights on practical issues encountered during the application and revalidation processes.

"Visiting the Koktokay World Geopark in person these past two days has been truly awe-inspiring," said He Qingcheng, Deputy Director of the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences and Executive Director of the National Geopark Network Center. He noted that this conference was held at a very opportune time, as China now boasts 37 world geoparks, accounting for nearly one-third of the global total, making it a well-deserved leader in world geoparks. The development of geoparks ensures the fundamental goals of geological heritage conservation and geoscience public education, while also promoting sustainable local economic growth.

"The application and re-evaluation of Global Geoparks are crucial steps in the construction of Global Geoparks," said He Qingcheng. Identifying issues in the application and evaluation process, sharing experiences, and providing feedback on suggestions are also the original intentions behind holding the Application and Re-evaluation Seminar.

At the seminar, Koktokay Global Geopark signed sister park agreements with Wudalianchi Global Geopark, Leiqiong Global Geopark, Ningde Global Geopark, Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark, Zhijindong Cave Global Geopark, and Zhangjiajie Global Geopark.