Beijing is experiencing growing international influence as the city accelerates efforts to become a world-class metropolis that is harmonious and livable.Chen Jining, Mayor of Beijing, said at a news conference that the city has witnessed tremendous historical changes over the past 70 years. “With the improved functions of the ‘four centres’ , the city has taken on a brand new look,” he said.
In 2014, President Xi Jinping gave clear guidance on “what kind of capital we are building and how to build it” by propping up the “four centres” as Beijing’s major functions —
namely the national political, cultural, international communication and scientific innovation centers.
In past years, Beijing has significantly improved its capability in delivering quality service for major national affairs and events. The city has also raised its cultural service level by
increasing the number of libraries, museums, shows and exhibitions.
Based on its rich technological resources and huge talent pool, Beijing has boosted innovation capabilities by putting 6.17% of its GDP into scientific research. The city has contributed to more than half of all China’s major world leading technological breakthroughs, Chen said.
In the past few years, Beijing has successfully held many international events such as the 22nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, the Belt and Road Forum for International
Cooperation and the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China Africa Cooperation, which have exhibited The Beijing Capital International Airport has ranked second in the world for years in terms of passenger traffic with annual visits exceeding 100 million.
Beijing is also home to 30,000 foreign institutions and the headquarters of major international organizations such as the Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank.
The capital has been working on improving its business climate for both foreign and domestic companies.
According to the World Bank, Beijing has made a significant contribution to China’s advancement in the global ranking for the ease of doing business in its Doing Business Report in 2018.
(Courtesy: China Daily)
