Ramy Shihabi

Palestinian Syrian

AT 27, I am pursuing my master’s degree in orthodontics at Huazhong University of Science & Technology. I have been in China for about one year. During this time, I’ve had a wonderful opportunity to explore various cities, including Beijing and Shenzhen.

I visited Shenzhen with an Arabian delegation as part of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) activities organized by the Chinese government. Each visit to a new city provides me with a completely new experience, bringing revelations about the local people, cuisine, customs, history and cultural backgrounds. It adds depth to my understanding of the Chinese culture.

Shenzhen, in its unique essence, blends natural landscapes with high technology and modern city life. It really lets you know that the era of artificial intelligence in China has begun. The city’s skyline is dominated by modern skyscrapers, and its economy has diversified beyond manufacturing to include finance, biotechnology, and other high-tech industries.

Over the years, Shenzhen has evolved into a major global technology and innovation hub. It is home to some of the world’s leading technology companies, including Huawei, Tencent, BYD, Tuya Smart, Hytera, and Mindray, which I had the honor to visit during my stay.

Mindray serves over 99% of 3A grade hospitals in China, including the hospital affiliated with Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science & Technology, where I am studying.

One of the key factors in Shenzhen’s rapid development was its strategic location adjacent to Hong Kong. Its proximity to Hong Kong facilitated economic exchanges, technological transfers, and knowledge sharing. The city became a vital link between China and the global market. Shenzhen deserves pride for its well-educated and well-mannered citizens, who always wait for the Metro train in orderly queues and for the red light to turn green at intersections.

I was also impressed by the beauty of the Guangdong Neilingding Futian National Nature Reserve harbored in Futian District. We observed diverse bird species in a lush environment.

I also had the honor to meet Cao Saixian, director of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office, who was warm and polite.

I was totally won over by Shenzhen during this visit, and I wish to find a job in the city after graduation, working as an orthodontist. See you again in Shenzhen!