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First batch of 20 intl. blocks unveiled

Writer: Han Ximin, Sun Yuchen  |  Editor: Liu Minxia  |  From: Shenzhen Daily  |  Updated: 2023-03-01

A total of 20 blocks in nine districts and Dapeng New Area have been selected into Shenzhen’s first batch of international blocks, the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office announced at a title-conferring ceremony held at the Civic Center in Futian District yesterday.

Seven of them, namely Zhaoshang, Shekou, Yuehai, Hetao Shenzhen Hong Kong Science and Technology Cooperation Zone (Futian Bonded Area), Minzhi, Xiangmihu, and Convention and Exhibition New Town, were recognized as the Demonstrative International Blocks for having favorable conditions for comprehensive development.

Six of the total — Zhaoshang, Yuehai, Shekou, Huaqiangbei, Cuizhu and Dapeng — won the title of Charateristic Demonstrative International Blocks, which excel in internatonal commerce exchanges, international industrial innovation, culture and tourism.

In another category, 14 of the 20 were listed as the Characteristic International Blocks, such as Pingshan, Guiyuan, Bantian and Taoyuan.

Shenzhen took the lead in the country to pilot the construction of international blocks in 2019 and launched a three-year program to build 20 international blocks in a bid to boost the city’s internationalization.

According to the plan, Shenzhen will form an international block network by 2025. By 2030, the international blocks will be the key components for the city’s construction of an international city and congregation of international advanced production forces, knowledge and technologies, and high-quality professionals.

Representatives from Shenzhen’s international blocks pose for a photo at a ceremony at the Civic Center in Futian District yesterday. The Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office conferred the 20 blocks the international status at the ceremony. Photos by Sun Yuchen

Cao Saixian (2nd L), director-general of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office, poses for a photo after presenting a plaque to representatives from Pingshan District yesterday. 

Stewart Hansen from New Zealand, who has been living in Shekou for seven years, gives a speech at the ceremony. He thought that building the international block has enhanced communications with the expat community, improved the quality of life and tightened the exchanges between the local and expat communities.

Cao Saixian (C), director-general of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office, poses for a photo with attendees of the ceremony yesterday. 

Cao Saixian (L), director-general of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office, talks to an expat attendee after the ceremony yesterday. 

Cao Saixian (2nd R), director-general of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office, talks to attendees of the ceremony yesterday.