Jian Zhen

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LEADING a high-level delegation, Eduardo Pedrosa, executive director of the APEC Secretariat, attended the APEC China 2026 “Tech for People” Nanshan Day on Wednesday as part of a multi-day visit to Shenzhen.

The delegation toured local innovation platforms, met with young entrepreneurs, and exchanged views on technological innovation, youth development and regional cooperation.

Co-hosted by the Nanshan District Government and Shenzhen News Group, Wednesday’s event drew officials, international startups, mentors and foreign media representatives, who also witnessed the launch of the “Tech for People” Asia-Pacific Youth Nanshan Global Co-Creation Initiative.

In his remarks, Pedrosa said the event could serve as a starting point to attract more young innovators to Shenzhen, linking the region with global markets and ensuring technology better serves society.

The delegation also visited local leading institutions and companies, gaining insights into the full innovation chain from research to commercialization. They said Nanshan stands out for its concentration of resources, commercialization efficiency, and startup ecosystem, making it a leading innovation hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

A highlight of the event was the launch of the “Tech for People” Asia-Pacific Youth Nanshan Global Co-Creation Initiative.

Jointly introduced by the district government and Shenzhen News Group, the program combines technology, storytelling and global communication. It aims to present Shenzhen’s innovation story in a more accessible and engaging way to international audiences.

The initiative will invite young people from across the Asia-Pacific region, international creators and foreign journalists to take part in on-the-ground innovation projects in Nanshan. Participants will document their experiences through video, writing and design.

Selected works will be included in Shenzhen’s official digital city image platform, showcasing the city as a global hub for innovation and helping local technologies and brands reach wider markets.

Officials said the initiative contributes to efforts to build a more integrated Asia-Pacific community  and highlights a focus on youth development by providing a platform for young people to exchange ideas.

At the same time, Nanshan’s innovation ecosystem offers a practical model for other APEC economies seeking to share the benefits of digital development and achieve high-quality growth.