Here, China and the world inspire each other
Date：2023-09-28
INSPIRING SHANGHAI
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Within the pages of Inspiring Shanghai, one can truly sense the dynamic connection between China and the world.
Ernest Hemingway wrote in the final paragraph of A Moveable Feast, "Paris was always worth it, you received return for whatever you brought to it." The same can be said for Shanghai; this city is boundless in its offerings.
Shanghai, once the economic, financial, and trade center of the Far East, transformed into China's largest comprehensive industrial base after the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949. In the two decades following the opening-up and reform in 1978, it firmly established its status as an international economic hub. As the 21st century dawned, Shanghai underwent a magnificent transformation into a global metropolis.
the Bund, Shanghai
Today, with a population exceeding 25 million, Shanghai rightly holds the title of a "Megacity". Additionally, it serves as the host for numerous significant international conferences and is home to the headquarters or offices of several international organizations.
In 2001, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders held their 9th informal meeting in Shanghai, marking the first time APEC convened in China. Leaders from various nations showcased the inclusivity and innovation of the East by wearing the modern Tang Suits. Nine years later, the 41st World Expo, themed "Better City, Better Life", took place in Shanghai. It was the first time many countries exhibited beyond their borders, converging on this eastern land. In that year, Shanghai became a crossroads of cultures. Fast forward to today, and the 6th China International Import Expo is set to take place in Shanghai once more, further emphasizing its role as a gateway city for global imports.
These international conferences and exhibitions bring cultures from around the world to Shanghai, and in turn, Shanghai opens its doors to the world, fostering diverse cultural exchanges. This city is not only a symbol of China but also a melting pot of international cultures. In Shanghai, one can feel the collision and fusion of civilizations from across the globe, significantly contributing to the world's prosperity and diversity. Through these events, Shanghai conveys friendship, creativity, and beauty to the world.
The view of Shanghai
As David Gosset, a sinologist and the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative, mentioned in the preface of Inspiring Shanghai, "First of all, and this is the main theme of our book, Shanghai is defined as an immense urban space of encounters between China and the world. These encounters are multiple, fertile, surprising. Better than in any other place, in Shanghai we take the pulse of these circulations between the depths of the Chinese continent and the vast world."
City God Temple of Shanghai
Inspiring Shanghai compiles profound reflections and personal experiences of individuals from different countries and professions, vividly showcasing the city's diverse fascination. This book is not only a precious anthology of Shanghai but also a confluence and fusion of cultures.
While many often draw comparisons between Shanghai and cities like New York and Paris, such analogies have their validity. However, we hope that, through the content of this book, readers will discover the truly unique qualities of Shanghai.
Let us embark on this journey to explore Shanghai together, a city that is inexhaustible, brimming with enchantment and mysteries, where China and the world inspire each other!
