Guangming District advanced its internationalization efforts by hosting a special event at the Shenzhen University of Advanced Technology on July 30. The event brought together representatives from government agencies, enterprises, research institutions, community groups, and volunteers to foster dialogue on enhancing international competence.
In her opening remarks, Cao Saixian, director general of the Shenzhen Municipal Foreign Affairs Office, described Shenzhen as a "two-way window" reflecting China's reform and opening up. “One side actively presents China to the world, while the other welcomes the world to observe our progress,” she said, emphasizing the city's unique role in global engagement. She praised Guangming District for its comprehensive approach, mobilizing diverse stakeholders and consolidating resources to build a modern international district.
Wang Zhongzheng, deputy director of the Protocol Division of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office, delivered a keynote speech on international protocol and reception practices. He outlined key diplomatic principles such as balance, reciprocity, and adherence to global standards.
Qin Kai, an officer from the Exit-Entry Administration Division of the Shenzhen Municipal Public Security Bureau, provided updates on exit-entry policies and services for international talent. He addressed questions from businesses about port visas (visas on arrival) procedures, noting that only four ports (checkpoints) in Shenzhen—Huanggang, Luohu, Shekou Cruise Center, and Bao'an Airport—currently handle these services. He introduced a “proxy application” model that allows key enterprises and research institutions to submit documents in advance, potentially reducing processing time to just 30–40 minutes.
As a key hub within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's national science center initiative, Guangming District has increasingly become a magnet for Fortune 500 companies and major foreign enterprises. Thanks to its favorable policies, industrial infrastructure, and research capabilities, the district has seen steady growth in foreign investment. By the end of February 2025, Guangming was home to more than 1,500 foreign-funded companies. In 2024 alone, 38 new foreign-invested firms were established in the district.