2011 SU Update: Shenzhen, China’s new ”Window to the World”

Detail from the beatiful ‘Spring Cocoon’ stadium (C.. Pierre/FISU)

SHENZHEN – The games officially started after an amazing opening ceremony, in the ‘Spring Cocoon’ Stadium. Everyone, who participated in that show, did their job with excellence.

But apart from everything, what was the main concept of the Opening Ceremony? Well, we have to make a trip to past to understand it.

30 years ago, Shenzhen was a small fishing village, which had a population like 30.000 people. But with the decision of the Chinese government, Shenzhen started to develop. The government’s main point was to build a city to cope with Hong Kong’s economical power in South Asia, and also, to use Hong Kong as a bridge to the west and the USA. After building factories in the city, Shenzhen began to produce. Production meant more development, and meant immigration. So city continued growing, and in 20 years, became a big municipality has the second biggest share of China’s yearly income.

Yes, this city continues growing in a really quick way. The Universiade is an important part of this growth. It is an honor for both the organizers, for the press and also, for the Chinese people to witness this impressive process.

(Source: Ozan Sülüm, AIPS Young Reporter/TUR)