Martin Li, Shan Shan

    martin.mouse@163.com

    SHENZHEN Foundation for International Exchange and Cooperation was established on Thursday with 10 million yuan (US$1.59 million) of initial government funding.

    The foundation will organize and subsidize exchange and cooperation between Shenzhen and its sister cities, as well as activities such as academic research, training, conferences, and sports and cultural events, according to the foundation’s management.

    Organizations and individuals will also be awarded by the foundation for outstanding contributions to Shenzhen’s international exchange and cooperation efforts.

    Under the guidance of the city’s foreign affairs office, the foundation is managed by a council composed of entrepreneurs, government officials and other professionals.

    Founder of Shenzhen-based real estate developer Vanke, Wang Shi, serves as chairman of the council.

    Shenzhen Mayor Xu Qin said at the establishment ceremony that the foundation is expected to gather resources to help Shenzhen expand its international exchange network.

    “I hope the foundation will facilitate local residents’ involvement in international exchange and cooperation, as well as boost the city’s international profile and competitiveness,” said Xu.

    Xu added that Shenzhen will seek more development opportunities by deepening international cooperation.

    An American teacher, James Brown, who was invited to attend the establishment ceremony, told Shenzhen Daily that he feels the foundation is necessary. “It symbolizes an international city’s opening up to the world. I hope it keeps going and attracts people all over the world to make their contributions to the development of Shenzhen,” said Brown.

    Brown said that to raise the city’s profile in the world, holding international events in arts, sports and media is a must.