According to Haoliang Xu, the Assistant Secretary General of UNDP, the progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has been slow, especially in the areas of climate action, reducing inequalities, and providing quality education. However, the picture is not entirely grim. Here are some insights into the progress of the SDGs as per Haoliang Xu:

• Extreme poverty has been significantly reduced in many countries, and many countries are on track to achieve universal access to basic education.
• There has been considerable progress in fighting malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.
• In the last decade, renewable energy production has increased by 164% globally, and carbon emissions have declined in 49 countries.
• But progress has been slow in providing universal healthcare, reducing inequality within and among countries, and promoting sustainable consumption and production.
• More investment in innovative technologies and financing mechanisms is required to achieve the SDGs by 2030.
• Increased cooperation and partnership among governments, civil society, private sector, and international organizations are necessary to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs.

In summary, the Assistant Secretary General of UNDP highlights both the success and challenges faced in achieving the SDGs, creating a call to action to accelerate the efforts towards sustainability.