BRI officials: Shenzhen model inspiring

Video by Lin Jianping, Li Jiayi

More than 50 international guests from nine countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) visited Shenzhen on March 5, gaining firsthand insight into China’s reform and opening-up and the city’s dynamic innovation-driven development.

The delegation, composed of international business officials from countries including Ethiopia, Kenya, Cuba and the Solomon Islands, took part in two training programs organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce. The programs were hosted by the Academy for International Business Officials under the ministry.

During their visit, the participants followed the footsteps of China’s reform and opening-up journey by touring several landmark locations across Shenzhen.

BRI officials pose for a group photo in front of the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall in Futian District. Photos by Li Jiayi

At the Shenzhen Reform and Opening-up Exhibition Hall in Futian District, historical photos, documents and artifacts illustrated the remarkable journey of China’s reform over the past four decades. The exhibition also highlights Guangdong’s achievements and serves as an important window for understanding the development of China’s special economic zones.

The delegation later visited the summit area of Lianhua Hill Park, where the statue of Deng Xiaoping stands overlooking the city. From the hilltop, participants viewed Shenzhen’s modern skyline and surrounding greenery, gaining a broader perspective on the city’s rapid transformation.

BRI officials pose for a photo at the summit area of Lianhua Hill Park.

The group also explored the Qianhai Exhibition Hall and the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub, where they observed the growing innovation ecosystem shaped by cooperation between Shenzhen and Hong Kong. The entrepreneurial environment and vibrant start-up culture offered a vivid example of China’s high-level opening-up and innovation-driven growth.

Many participants said the visit provided valuable insights and inspiration for development in their own countries.

Hildebrand Ezekiel Shayo from Tanzania noted that he had previously visited Shenzhen in 2013 with a government delegation. “Now I can see many new high-rise buildings and the GDP has grown significantly,” he said. “When I return home, I plan to write an article to share my experience in Shenzhen. What has taken place here can be replicated elsewhere, but it requires planning, discipline and, above all, good leadership.”

BRI officials dance with local residents at Lianhua Hill Park.

Francis Daudi Mlacha, also from Tanzania, said Shenzhen’s transformation offers important lessons. “The journey of Shenzhen is truly inspiring,” he said. “There are key lessons we can learn, including infrastructure development, industrial growth, urban planning and strong leadership commitment.”

Lemuel Lui Alufurai from the Solomon Islands described Shenzhen’s development as a story of hope for developing countries. “It gives courage to countries like mine,” he said. “If our government is serious, this model can be translated into action in our own country.”

The visit was organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce, hosted by the Academy for International Business Officials, and supported by the Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Commerce.