Kishore Mahbubani on APEC Meeting in Shenzhen Inspiring Global Development
Recently, Shenzhen hosted an informal meeting of senior officials from countries participating in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. This pivotal gathering laid the groundwork for the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, scheduled to be held in Shenzhen in 2026. Former Singapore Ambassador to the United Nations, Kishore Mahbubani, a prominent figure in international relations, attended this event and expressed his thoughts on the significance of Shenzhen as a model for global development.
Mahbubani, known for having participated in the inaugural APEC Leaders' Meeting in 1993, returned to Shenzhen with a keen analytical perspective. He referred to the city as possibly "the fastest-growing city in world history." Standing atop a skyscraper overlooking Shenzhen Bay, he reminisced about the area's past, illustrating it with a stark contrast: "There was once nothing here but rice fields. Today, the skyline is comparable to the greatest cities worldwide." He believed that the achievements of Shenzhen could serve as a genuine inspiration for the world.
One point of interest for Mahbubani was BYD, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer based in Shenzhen. During his visit, he was able to test new models and observe demonstrations related to innovative battery technology. This company, established three decades ago, is now operational in 116 nations and symbolizes Shenzhen's transition from basic manufacturing to advanced technological leadership.
As Shenzhen marks 45 years since its designation as a Special Economic Zone, its transformation over this period is nothing short of remarkable. Recognized as one of the largest urban economies in mainland China, the city is often seen as a testing ground for the nation’s developmental policies. Mahbubani noted that Shenzhen's advantages are not solely economic but also institutional. At the Qianhai Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, he met with startups and Hong Kong-funded firms that benefit from integrated governmental services and political backing, a system he described as efficient and replicable.
Mahbubani also highlighted the changing dynamics between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, evolving from a unidirectional flow of resources to a mutually reinforcing relationship. The youthful demographic combined with a dense ecosystem of innovation has allowed Shenzhen to attract new sectors, ranging from electric vehicles to augmented reality.
In a time where global growth is slowing, Mahbubani sees Shenzhen offering a fresh perspective on development. He believes the city's accomplishments can genuinely inspire other nations, showcasing the rapid progress achievable in a relatively short timeframe. The achievements of Shenzhen, marked by its structural changes and innovative spirit, could serve as a blueprint for worldwide economic rejuvenation and success in the decades to come.
In conclusion, as the APEC meeting gathers momentum and Shenzhen stands as host, it becomes increasingly evident that the city is at the forefront of global enterprise, potentially igniting renewed interest in collaborative growth strategies throughout the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Mahbubani, known for having participated in the inaugural APEC Leaders' Meeting in 1993, returned to Shenzhen with a keen analytical perspective. He referred to the city as possibly "the fastest-growing city in world history." Standing atop a skyscraper overlooking Shenzhen Bay, he reminisced about the area's past, illustrating it with a stark contrast: "There was once nothing here but rice fields. Today, the skyline is comparable to the greatest cities worldwide." He believed that the achievements of Shenzhen could serve as a genuine inspiration for the world.
One point of interest for Mahbubani was BYD, a leading electric vehicle manufacturer based in Shenzhen. During his visit, he was able to test new models and observe demonstrations related to innovative battery technology. This company, established three decades ago, is now operational in 116 nations and symbolizes Shenzhen's transition from basic manufacturing to advanced technological leadership.
As Shenzhen marks 45 years since its designation as a Special Economic Zone, its transformation over this period is nothing short of remarkable. Recognized as one of the largest urban economies in mainland China, the city is often seen as a testing ground for the nation’s developmental policies. Mahbubani noted that Shenzhen's advantages are not solely economic but also institutional. At the Qianhai Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, he met with startups and Hong Kong-funded firms that benefit from integrated governmental services and political backing, a system he described as efficient and replicable.
Mahbubani also highlighted the changing dynamics between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, evolving from a unidirectional flow of resources to a mutually reinforcing relationship. The youthful demographic combined with a dense ecosystem of innovation has allowed Shenzhen to attract new sectors, ranging from electric vehicles to augmented reality.
In a time where global growth is slowing, Mahbubani sees Shenzhen offering a fresh perspective on development. He believes the city's accomplishments can genuinely inspire other nations, showcasing the rapid progress achievable in a relatively short timeframe. The achievements of Shenzhen, marked by its structural changes and innovative spirit, could serve as a blueprint for worldwide economic rejuvenation and success in the decades to come.
In conclusion, as the APEC meeting gathers momentum and Shenzhen stands as host, it becomes increasingly evident that the city is at the forefront of global enterprise, potentially igniting renewed interest in collaborative growth strategies throughout the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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