Expats send wishes on Qianhai’s 15th anniversary

Video by Zhen Jianhong

From "future" to "friendship," international residents from seven countries — including the United States, Italy, Brazil, and Romania — are putting Qianhai into words as the Qianhai Shenzhen–Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone turns 15.

Mauro Rubin

Mauro Rubin, from Italy, described Qianhai in three keywords: “future,” “technology,” and “nature.” He said he loves Qianhai largely because of the area’s perfect balance between nature and professional services.

“We need services such as public transportation and the ability to move around independently in a pleasant environment. At the same time, we also need contact with nature,” he said.

Sava Tomoiaga

Sava Tomoiaga, a Romanian who has lived in Shenzhen for 27 years, called Qianhai “modern,” “friendly,” and “well equipped.” She highlighted the newly opened city terminal linking to Hong Kong International Airport, noting that it allo ws passengers to check in ahead of time and travel directly to the airport by intercity bus.

Marina Vilchinskaia

Marina Vilchinskaia, from Russia, described Qianhai as “young,” “futuristic,” and “developing.” She was particularly impressed by the autonomous buses and driverless taxis operating in Qianhai and even took a ride in a driverless taxi herself.

As the first full-area demonstration zone for 5G-plus autonomous driving, Qianhai leverages cutting-edge technologies such as Beidou high-precision positioning and AI decision-making to integrate autonomous buses into daily life. Four autonomous bus routes have already launched, linking Qianhai’s key landmarks. Residents can reserve rides for free via the WeChat mini-program “深巴出行” (Shenba Chuxing).

Jim Filbird

Jim Filbird, an American who moved to Shenzhen 19 years ago, said he has watched Qianhai rise from reclaimed land into a bustling high-tech area. “I often come here to ride bikes, try good restaurants, and visit friends from Hong Kong,” he said, inviting more international friends to explore Qianhai.

Julia Liu

Julia Liu, from Ukraine, said she often meets interesting people from many countries and backgrounds in Qianhai. She hopes the area will attract more Chinese and international residents to foster collaboration and serve as a cultural bridge.

On its 15th anniversary, Qianhai is defined by Hong Kong influence, an international vibe, coastal charm, modern design, and a futuristic outlook. It is working to build four major international functional circles — international service, innovation, living, and community — to accelerate its path toward greater internationalization and attract global talent to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Source:Shenzhen Daily