SZ, Vienna establish friendly exchange ties

Video by Wang Haolan

Shenzhen signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Vienna today to establish friendly exchange relations with the capital of Austria, which is widely regarded as the classical music capital of the world.

Chen Qing (R), member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee, and Vienna Vice Mayor and Executive City Councilor Peter Hanke shake hands at the ceremony marking the establishment of friendly exchange relations between Shenzhen and Vienna today. Photos by Xu Shuntian

The MOU, which will foster cooperation between the two cities in various fields, was signed by Chen Qing, member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee, and Vienna Vice Mayor and Executive City Councilor Peter Hanke.

The establishment of friendly exchange relations is expected to promote cooperation between Shenzhen and Vienna in areas such as trade and investment, life sciences, health care, environmental protection, start-ups, urban sustainable development, new energy, digital industries, and creative industries.

Broad prospects for cooperation

In an interview with Shenzhen Daily, Hanke highlighted the importance of the MOU, which is the first step to line out concrete projects where the two cities can cooperate.

Hanke speaks in an interview with Shenzhen Daily today.

He emphasized that both cities face similar challenges and opportunities in the journey towards carbon neutrality. The exchange of technologies, from hydrogen energy to district heating networks, will be crucial in this quest. 

“Although the two cities are thousands of miles apart, they face similar challenges. It’s about carbon neutrality and what technologies can be used to find answers to becoming carbon neutral,” Hanke said. “The two cities that are important in China and in Europe can learn from each other.”

Hanke also noted the unifying power of music and the educational opportunities that both cities offer. He expressed enthusiasm for the potential to strengthen cultural ties, leveraging Vienna’s rich musical heritage and Shenzhen’s openness to international learning.

“Music unites people and training is very important. There is already a great exchange [between Vienna and Shenzhen], so I am sure that both cities can set different priorities in terms of partnership,” Hanke said.

Direct flights make cities closer

Moreover, Hanke shared his view on the impending resumption of direct flights between Shenzhen and Vienna, a move that will not only enhance tourism but also facilitate the exchange of experts and ideas. 

Officials and guests pose for a group photo at today's ceremony. 

Hainan Airlines plans to resume direct flights from Shenzhen to Vienna starting from May 29, according to the Chinese airline.

The direct link will eliminate the need for previous connecting flights via European hubs such as Munich or Frankfurt, bringing the cities closer than ever, Hanke said.

Interest in low-altitude economy

As part of his first visit to Shenzhen, Hanke’s itinerary also included attending the Drone World Congress that opened in Shenzhen today.

Hanke at today's ceremony. 

“I believe that this is a good example of technology where many projects are currently being explored by start-ups and large companies,” Hanke talked about the low-altitude economy.

“In terms of parcel delivery, we have a considerable need for improvement in cities and therefore [this] can also be a good start to show that the two cities can cooperate with each other,” Hanke said.