PR summit pursues global excellence

The 2018 Shanghai International Public Relations Summit, themed by “Development of socialist, modern and international city and promotion of Shanghai's image around the world,” was held on Sunday at Shanghai International Convention Center.

The summit was organized by Shanghai Public Relations Association, Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, Shanghai United Media Group and Shanghai Media Group.

In the keynote speech, Li Zhaoxing, former minister of Foreign Affairs spoke about China’s foreign policy.

Qiu Baoxing of the State Council, talked about building a safe city, stressing strengthening the city’s capacity to face natural disasters.

“If a city aims to become a global city, it has to be safe, green, recyclable and sustainable,” Qiu added.

John Ross, former director of Economic and Business Policy, spoke of London’s success in becoming a global city. He believes if a city wants to promote its image, it must have a clear vision and all promotions should be centered on that vision. 

“China is simultaneously the most ancient and most modern country in the world, and Shanghai is the most modern part of the country,” he said.

Other keynote speakers, including Yōichi Masuzoe, former governor of Tokyo, and Ma Chunlei, Deputy Secretary-General of Shanghai Municipal Government, Director of Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission, also offered their insights.

The event consists of three parallel forums, which discussed the challenges and opportunities Shanghai encounters on its way to becoming a modern, socialist, international city.