BEIJING, April 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday proposed a five-point initiative on promoting green development at the opening ceremony of the International Horticultural Exhibition 2019 Beijing.

We should pursue harmony between man and nature, Xi said, urging that the overall balance of Earth's ecology should be maintained, so that the starry sky, lush mountains and floral fragrance will be retained for our future generations who enjoy material prosperity at the same time.

We should pursue the prosperity based on green development, Xi said, adding that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets and improving ecological environment is increasing productivity.

We should foster a passion for nature-caring lifestyle, Xi said, calling for embracing simple, moderate, green and low-carbon ways of life, and making the idea of ecological and environmental conservation the mainstream culture in society.

We should pursue a scientific spirit in ecological governance, Xi said, adding that ecological governance should follow the law of nature and make scientific planning, while taking into consideration local conditions and a holistic approach to create a diversified ecological system of co-existence.

We should join hands to tackle environmental challenges, Xi said, adding that only with concerted efforts can we effectively deal with global environmental issues such as climate change, marine pollution and biological protection, and achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development goals.