SZ's tech innovation impresses Luxembourg delegation

Video and photos by Lin Songtao

A Luxembourg delegation led by Emile Eicher, deputy mayor of Clervaux, Luxembourg and president of SYVICOL (Syndicat des Villes et Communes Luxembourgeoises), visited Shenzhen yesterday to gain a comprehensive understanding of the city’s development in economy, society, culture, and technology. 

The delegation included 11 senior officials from cities and towns across Luxembourg, most of whom are members of SYVICOL. For many delegates, this marked their first visit to Shenzhen.

Sharing his initial impressions with Shenzhen Daily, Eicher said, “The city is highly urbanized, with beautiful flowers and nice roads. And the buildings are very modern.” 

Members of a Luxembourg delegation comprising 11 senior municipal officials listen attentively to a presentation at HTCZ yesterday. 

The delegation began their tour at the Shenzhen Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone (HTCZ). They listened to informative presentations given by representatives from the city’s Foreign Affairs Office, the Hetao Development Authority, the Investment Promotion Bureau, and other local authorities. 

Zhang Xuan, who is responsible for the preparation of the World Innovative Cities Cooperation Organization (WICCO), introduced the group as an international non-governmental, non-profit organization voluntarily formed by cities and technology innovation entities to strengthen global cooperation. He outlined WICCO’s vision, key initiatives, and extended an invitation to Luxembourg cities and regions to join the platform for open innovation collaboration. 

Wang Zebin, director of the Exchange and Cooperation Division at the Hetao Development Authority, highlighted the HTCZ’s role as a national strategic platform. He emphasized the Shenzhen Park’s focus on becoming a world-class sci-tech hub by leveraging its strategic geography and dynamic international ecosystem. According to Wang, the HTCZ warmly welcomes Luxembourg companies and tech professionals to explore opportunities in the area. 

Eicher speaks at "Shenzhen Let You Know" themed event held at HTCZ yesterday. 

“This meeting here was very interesting to hear what your financial markets are doing and how you are developing,” said Eicher. “China and Luxembourg have very good diplomatic relations for over 50 years, and both Shenzhen and Luxembourg are very strong in financial services. It's easy to cooperate in the sector because we share the same interests.”

He also praised Shenzhen’s innovative spirit and commitment to progress, saying that Luxembourg shares much in common with Shenzhen, such as prioritizing urban and sustainable development. He also sees the potential of Luxembourg and Shenzhen cooperating in health technology and construction.

Tim Karius, mayor of Lenningen, said, “The link between Hong Kong and Shenzhen to create such a thriving hub is very impressive,” adding that building international partnerships is very important for progress.