UNDP Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) Internship: A Comprehensive Guide UNDP

March 13, 2025

10 minutes read

The Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) is an intergovernmental cooperation mechanism involving China, South Korea, Mongolia, and Russia, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It aims to promote economic and technical cooperation in Northeast Asia, particularly in the Tumen River area, enhancing regional trade, investment, infrastructure, and sustainable development.

This internship offers an opportunity to work directly with the GTI Secretariat in Beijing, assisting in event management, research, and administrative support for various regional initiatives.

Job Responsibilitieswordpress-6.7.1

1. Event Organization

One of the key responsibilities is to coordinate logistics for GTI meetings and events. This includes:

Planning & managing logistics for major annual meetings, such as:
- GTI Consultative Commission Meeting
- Sectoral board/committee meetings
- Workshops and seminars (e.g., High-Level Meeting on Digitalization of International Rail Transport in Asia-Pacific)
Arranging travel and accommodations for participants (flights, hotels, visas, meals, etc.).
Coordinating with suppliers (e.g., hotels, catering, transportation).
Preparing event materials such as invitations, meeting agendas, minutes, and reports.

2. Research & Report Preparation

The intern will assist in collecting and compiling research materials related to GTI’s key areas, such as:

Trade & investment
Energy cooperation
Environmental initiatives
Agriculture and infrastructure projects They may also be asked to prepare internal reports summarizing these research findings.

3. Administrative Support

The intern will help with office operations, including:

Booking travel arrangements (flights, visas, hotels) for GTI Secretariat staff.
Supporting procurement processes.
Handling other office administrative tasks as required.

4. Other Responsibilities

The intern must be flexible and willing to take on additional tasks as assigned by supervisors.

Requirements & Qualifications

1. Education & Experience

A Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or at least secondary education in:
- International economy
- Public/business administration
- International relations
- English or interpretation
Experience in event planning, program assistance, or research (especially in international organizations) is an advantage.
Strong computer skills (MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

2. Eligibility

Applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions:

Enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program.
In the final year of a Bachelor’s program.
Recently graduated (within one year) from a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program.
Enrolled in a postgraduate traineeship related to this internship.

3. Language Skills

Fluent English is required.
Chinese or French is an asset but not mandatory.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit one PDF file containing:

CV and motivation letter
Copy of academic transcript
Details of financial support (if applicable, such as university funding or scholarships).

⚠️ Note: Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Internship Conditions

The internship is full-time for 6 months.
Stipend: Interns receive a monthly stipend.
Leave: 1.5 days per month.
Health Insurance: Interns must provide proof of health insurance and a medical certificate before starting.
Travel & Visa: The intern is responsible for visa, travel, accommodation, and living costs.

Why Apply?

✅ Gain experience in international cooperation & policy research.
✅ Work with UNDP & GTI, supporting global initiatives.
✅ Develop skills in event management, administration, and research.
✅ Network with government representatives & business leaders from China, South Korea, Mongolia, and Russia.

Deadline & Application

Apply Before: March 16, 2025, at 5:59 PM (Beijing Time)
Location: Beijing, China
Agency: UNDP

Let me know if you need help with your CV, motivation letter, or application strategy

Sure! Here’s a detailed and extensive explanation of the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) Internship at UNDP in Beijing, China.

Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) Internship – UNDP (Beijing, China)

1. Introduction to the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI)

The Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) is a unique intergovernmental cooperation mechanism that promotes regional economic and technical collaboration in Northeast Asia. Originally known as the Tumen River Area Development Programme (TRADP), the initiative was established with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance trade, investment, and infrastructure development among China, South Korea, Mongolia, and Russia.

1.1 GTI’s Strategic Role

GTI serves as a critical platform for fostering peace, stability, and sustainable economic growth by:

Encouraging cross-border trade and investment.
Supporting infrastructure development (e.g., transportation networks).
Facilitating regional energy and environmental cooperation.
Enhancing agricultural collaboration among member nations.

1.2 Evolution of GTI

GTI was formally established in 1995, when its four member countries signed agreements to institutionalize regional economic cooperation. Over the years, the initiative has expanded its focus areas and institutional mechanisms, including:

Northeast Asia Local Cooperation Committee (NEA LCC) – Engaging regional and local governments in economic cooperation.
GTI Research Institutions Network – Conducting studies to guide policy decisions.
NEA EXIM Bank Association – Facilitating financing for infrastructure projects.
NEA Business Association – Connecting business communities across the four member nations.

Currently, GTI is transitioning into an independent international organization, which will further enhance its ability to foster sustainable development in the region.

2. GTI Internship – Key Details

The GTI Internship is a prestigious 6-month full-time internship at the GTI Secretariat in Beijing, China, under the supervision of the Finance and Admin Associate. The intern will work closely with GTI staff, government representatives, and international stakeholders to support event coordination, research, and administrative tasks.

2.1 Job Title & Organization Details

Position: GTI Intern
Agency: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Location: Beijing, China
Duration: 6 months
Work Schedule: Full-time
Contract Type: Internship Programme
Department: Governance Practice Area
Application Deadline: March 16, 2025, 5:59 PM (Beijing Time)
Posting Date: March 5, 2025

3. Key Responsibilities & Scope of Work

The GTI Intern will be responsible for assisting the GTI Secretariat in multiple functions, including event management, research, administrative tasks, and stakeholder communication.

3.1 Event Organization Responsibilities

One of the core responsibilities is to coordinate and manage logistics for major GTI events and meetings. These include:

Annual Consultative Commission Meeting – A high-level meeting involving government representatives and policymakers from China, South Korea, Mongolia, and Russia.
Annual Sectoral Board/Committee Meetings – Covering key GTI focus areas such as trade, investment, transportation, energy, agriculture, tourism, and the environment.
Project Workshops & Seminars, including:
- High-Level Meeting on Deepening Digitalization of International Rail Transport in Asia-Pacific
- Meeting of the North-East Asia Business Association
- 9th Agriculture Committee Meeting
- 7th Meeting of the Trade and Investment Committee

Event Logistics Coordination Includes:

Making travel arrangements for GTI participants (flights, accommodation, visa processing, transportation, etc.).
Liaising with hotels, conference venues, and catering services to ensure smooth event operations.
Preparing meeting materials, including invitation letters, agendas, and minutes.
Communicating with stakeholders such as government officials, international organizations, and business representatives.

3.2 Research & Policy Support

The intern will also assist in research projects related to GTI’s priority areas:

Trade and investment policy analysis
Regional energy cooperation research
Infrastructure and transport development projects
Environmental protection initiatives

Tasks will include:

Compiling and analyzing research reports on regional economic cooperation.
Summarizing policy discussions and drafting internal reports.
Providing data-driven insights for GTI projects and decision-making processes.

3.3 Administrative & Office Support

The intern will support the GTI Secretariat in various administrative duties, including:

Making travel arrangements for GTI Secretariat staff.
Assisting in procurement processes (e.g., office supplies, vendor contracts).
Managing office documentation and correspondence.

3.4 Additional Responsibilities

Assisting with media and public relations activities (e.g., writing newsletters, social media updates).
Supporting capacity-building initiatives and GTI’s engagement with international donors and organizations.
Performing other duties as assigned by supervisors and GTI staff.

4. Required Qualifications & Eligibility Criteria

4.1 Education Requirements

Candidates must meet at least one of the following educational criteria:

Enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program.
In the final year of a Bachelor’s degree program.
Graduated within the past year (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
Enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program.

Preferred fields of study:

International Relations
Public Administration
Business Administration
International Economy
English & Translation

4.2 Experience & Skills

Experience in event planning and program coordination (preferred).
Research experience (especially in economic policy, trade, or governance).
Excellent computer skills (MS Office: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Strong analytical and writing skills.

4.3 Language Requirements

Fluent English is required.
Chinese or French is a plus.

5. Application Requirements

Applicants must submit one merged PDF file containing:

Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation Letter
Copy of academic transcript
Statement of financial support (if applicable)

⚠️ Note: Applications missing any required documents will not be considered.

6. Internship Conditions & Benefits

6.1 Internship Benefits

✅ Monthly stipend (amount undisclosed).
✅ Hands-on experience in international development and economic cooperation.
✅ Opportunity to work with UNDP & international policymakers.
✅ Networking with government officials, business leaders, and international organizations.

6.2 Internship Conditions

Health Insurance: Interns must provide proof of health insurance.
Medical Certificate: Required before the internship starts.
Visa & Travel Costs: Interns are responsible for their own visas, travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
Leave Policy: Interns get 1.5 days of leave per month.
Internship Duration: Must be completed in full; early termination is not allowed.

7. Application Deadline & How to Apply

Apply Before: March 16, 2025 (5:59 PM Beijing Time)
Submission Method: UNDP’s official recruitment portal.

🔗 Apply Now: UNDP GTI Internship Application

8. Conclusion

This internship is a fantastic opportunity for students and recent graduates who are passionate about regional cooperation, economic development, and international diplomacy. It provides invaluable experience in event planning, research, and administrative coordination within an international organization.

The Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) Internship offered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Beijing, China, presents a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about international economic cooperation, sustainable development, and regional integration in Northeast Asia. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in organizing international events, conducting research, and supporting administrative functions within the GTI Secretariat.

Background of the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI)

Established in 1995, the GTI, originally known as the Tumen River Area Development Programme (TRADP), is an intergovernmental cooperation mechanism in Northeast Asia. Supported by the UNDP, its member countries include the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of Korea, Mongolia, and the Russian Federation. The initiative aims to strengthen economic and technical cooperation, fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life in the region, particularly in the Tumen River area.

Over the years, GTI has evolved into a unique platform for economic collaboration, promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in Northeast Asia. It plays a pivotal role in facilitating policy dialogue and creating a business-friendly environment, contributing to infrastructure development and the promotion of trade and investment. In 2005, member countries assumed full ownership of the initiative, focusing on key economic sectors such as energy, transport, tourism, trade and investment, environment, and agriculture. Recent expansions include mechanisms like the Northeast Asia Local Cooperation Committee, the NEA EXIM Bank Association, the GTI Research Institutions Network, and the NEA Business Association. Currently, GTI is transitioning into an independent international organization, with discussions on legal frameworks underway.

Internship Responsibilities

As a GTI intern, you will work under the supervision of the Finance and Admin Associate of the GTI Secretariat. Your responsibilities will encompass coordinating and assisting in the preparation and organization of GTI events and activities, communicating with stakeholders, compiling research reports, and providing administrative support.

Scope of Work

Events Organization:
- Manage logistical arrangements for GTI events, including annual Consultative Commission Meetings, Sectoral board/committee meetings, and project workshops/seminars.
- Coordinate logistics for participants in collaboration with the hosting party, covering aspects such as flights, accommodations, meeting venues, airport transfers, meals, technical tours, and visas.
- Communicate with various suppliers and meeting participants.
- Support program officers in preparing invitation letters, meeting materials, meeting minutes, and e-newsletters.
Research Support:
- Assist in the preparation of research reports and compile relevant materials.
- Support in drafting internal reports as needed.
Administrative Support:
- Arrange travel for Secretariat staff, including visas, flights, and hotel bookings.
- Support office operational procurement when necessary.
Other Responsibilities:
- Perform additional duties as required by the supervisor.

Competencies

Interest and knowledge of Northeast Asia, particularly GTI activities, are preferred.
Effective team player with excellent interpersonal skills; highly self-motivated and detail-oriented.
Ability to perform in a multicultural environment.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Minimum of a secondary education; a Bachelor’s degree or higher in international economy, public and/or business administration, English and/or interpretation, or international relations is preferred.
Experience in event organization or program assistance, preferably with international organizations, and experience in organizing international meetings and events is preferred.
Experience in preparing research reports is an asset.
Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Eligibility Criteria:

Candidates must meet one of the following educational requirements:

Enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program.
In the final year of a Bachelor’s program.
Within one year after graduation from a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program.
Enrolled in a postgraduate professional traineeship program and undertaking the internship as part of this program.

Language Skills:

Excellent communication and drafting skills in English. Proficiency in Chinese or French is an asset.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents in one PDF file:

CV and letter of motivation.
Copy of school transcript.
Indication of financial support from any institution or program, such as a university, government, foundation, or scholarship program, including the financial amount.

Note: Applications lacking the required documentation will not be considered.

Internship Conditions

Health and Insurance: Interns must provide proof of enrollment in a health insurance plan and a medical certificate of good health prior to starting the internship. Any costs arising from accidents and illness incurred during the internship are the responsibility of the intern.
Stipend and Leave: A monthly stipend will be provided. Interns are entitled to 1.5 days of leave per month.
Travel and Accommodation: Interns are responsible for obtaining necessary visas and arranging travel to and from the duty station. Costs and arrangements for travel, visas, passports, accommodations, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or their sponsoring institution.
Employment Restrictions: Interns must not apply for or be appointed to positions that should be encumbered by a staff member during the internship period. Interns are expected to fulfill the terms of their internships and should not shorten the internship to apply for a position.
Official Representation: Interns are not staff members and may not represent UNDP in any official capacity.

Application Process

To apply for the GTI Internship, candidates should visit the UNDP Careers page and search for the specific internship posting. Applications must be submitted online through the UNDP recruitment platform.

For detailed information about the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI) Internship offered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Beijing, China, and to apply, please visit the official UNDP job posting:

jobs.undp.org

For a broader understanding of UNDP’s internship programs and application procedures, you can refer to their internships page:

undp.org

These resources provide comprehensive information on the internship’s responsibilities, qualifications, application requirements, and conditions.

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