On November 30, a delegation of 26 journalists from 11 countries along the Maritime Silk Road explored Shenzhen, witnessing firsthand how China's pioneering special economic zone has evolved over 45 years into a hub of technological innovation and cultural preservation.
The tour featured visits to BYD and the Intelligent Connected Vehicle Test Site, where reporters experienced cutting-edge autonomous driving technology. "It's kind of cool to be sitting in a car with no driver," said Anita Joe Nalau of Vanuatu Broadcasting and Television Corporation, who never imagined such an opportunity. Mohamed Alsanhory from Cairo 24 praised the comfort of BYD's electric vehicles, adding, "You adjust the seat and drive in total comfort—it feels good."
At LAIPIC.AI, journalists observed the shift from "Made in China" to "Created in China" through AI innovations such as generative albums and digital narrative tools. Ritika Pratap of Fijian Broadcasting Corporation was moved by an AI-generated story of a couple's life. "It captured their journey beautifully—a wonderful way to preserve memories," she remarked.
Beyond technology, the group visited Changzhou Dramaville, where traditional shadow puppetry illustrated Shenzhen's parallel commitment to cultural heritage and rural revitalization. Hanni Sofia from Indonesia's Antara News Agency noted similarities to wayang kulit, her country's traditional puppet theatre, and described the area as "tranquil and culturally rich—a place where local traditions feel alive."
For many, the tour highlighted Shenzhen's unique synthesis of future-forward vision and cultural continuity. Stevenson Liu, also from Vanuatu, called electric vehicles "the future" and stressed that "every driver should experience them." His comments echoed a broader sentiment among the journalists: that Shenzhen offers not just a model of technological advancement, but a sustainable, culturally integrated example for nations along the Silk Road.
By blending glimpses of AI and automation with immersive cultural encounters, the visit fostered meaningful dialogue and offered international media a nuanced perspective on China's growing role in both global innovation and cultural exchange.
Reporter: Guo Zedong
Editor: Yuan Zixiang, James Campion, Shen He
Photo: Pan Jiajun
