International journalists explore China's technological innovations in Zhongguancun

Up to 93 journalists from 84 countries and regions participated in a visit to the exhibition center of the Zhongguancun Science Park, or called Z-park, to gain a deeper understanding of China's recent technological advancements and its policies promoting open innovation on Wednesday.

Organized jointly by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Commission, and the China Public Diplomacy Association, the event was graced by the presence of China's deputy minister of science and technology, Chen Jiachang, who delivered a speech highlighting China's achievements in the field.

During the visit, Dai Gang, director of the International Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Science and Technology, shed light on China's international scientific cooperation initiatives and provided insights in this regard.

The foreign journalists invited had the chance to explore the latest exhibits at the center, including fundamental research, large scientific facilities, brain science and neuromorphic research.

They also toured the Zhongguancun Software Park, engaging in interactive exchanges with enterprises within the park, thus experiencing firsthand the developmental potential and innovative vitality of Zhongguancun as a representative hub of technological innovation in China.

"There are so many innovations from rockets to cars. You can find every technology here, which is very impressive," said Ebraheem Faisal Malik, chief digital officer from The Daily Cpec in Pakistan. He added that many of China's manufacturing products can be exported to other countries like Pakistan.

In front of a booth showing Xiaomi SU7 electronic cars, Ayanda Mdluli, editor of the Daily News, South Africa, said he really hoped he could try a Xiaomi car once before he heads home.

"Look at this car. It looks fabulous and it's eco-friendly," he said, and China has made great achievements in robots and AI technology."

Beijing, as an international hub for technological innovation, stands out for its abundance of talent and technological advantages. The city's innovation resources lead globally in terms of quantity, quality and density, showcasing significant achievements in the construction of international technological innovation centers.

Comparing data from 2014, Beijing has seen a substantial leap in key indicators of technological innovation. The number of invention patents per ten thousand people has increased more than fourfold, rising from 48.2 patents in 2014 to 262.9 patents in 2023. Additionally, the annual turnover of technology contracts has more than doubled, climbing from 313.6 billion yuan in 2014 to 853.69 billion yuan in 2023. The number of national high-tech enterprises has also more than doubled, growing from 10,400 in 2014 to 28,300 in 2023.