As the 2026 APEC Economic Leaders' Week gets underway, journalists from around the world are gathering at the media center in Shenzhen to cover the event. Among them is Russian journalist Konstantin Kobaidze, who is visiting Shenzhen for the first time.
Konstantin sums up his first impression of the city in one word: "warm." "I like the city, I like the atmosphere here," he said.
The media center also caught his eye. Blending traditional Chinese culture with futuristic design, the venue offers plenty for visiting journalists to explore.
One display in particular stood out: an exhibit featuring costumes reminiscent of traditional Chinese opera. "I like this one because it looks like Chinese opera costumes. So it's very beautiful, and it shows a lot of colors," he said, adding with enthusiasm, "The power of beauty!"
As a cameraman, Konstantin has his own priorities during the event. At one of the year's major international gatherings, he hopes to capture some memorable photographs and videos.
And judging by his experience so far, things are off to a good start. "My expectations are now reality," he said.
He also hopes that the expectations of the event organizers and the people of Shenzhen will become reality.
For journalists covering a major international event, the stories go beyond meeting rooms and official agendas. Sometimes, they begin with a first visit to a new city, a cultural discovery or a friendly conversation with someone from another part of the world.
This is the first episode of Hello APEC, a series bringing you face-to-face with the international journalists covering APEC China 2026 in Shenzhen.
Reporter | Li Fangwang
Video & Poster | Qin Shaolong
