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Shanghai and Chengdu nominated UNESCO Creative Cities

Shanghai and Chengdu nominated UNESCO Creative Cities
  • © Shanghai

The Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova, nominated the two Chinese cities, Shanghai and Chengdu, respectively “City of Design” and “City of Gastronomy” to the Creative Cities Network.

In the case of Shanghai it was for the city’s rapid growth and innovative development of design activities and the opportunities offered to the professional community through a solid basis of resources and diverse platforms of international exchange leading to a lively cooperation across borders. Shanghai’s clear vision on the significant role creative industries can play in urban development as well as its goal to make the city an internationally recognized center of design were highly appreciated. The city was also acknowledged for its strong links between culture, technology and economy. In addition, Shanghai’s undertaking of a principal role in enhancing the development of a balanced design landscape on a socio-cultural and environmental level was also greatly appreciated.

With regards to Chengdu, the city was acknowledged for being the birthplace of many culinary traditions and is home to a vibrant community of gastronomic professionals who are actively promoting innovation in food and sustainable strategies for the development of quality culinary practices. It has a unique culinary culture which manifests local culture and demonstrates the preservation and cultivation of gastronomic creativity. Also noteworthy is the variety of resources and programs offered in the gastronomic field and the fast progress in the city’s food industry. Chengdu’s experience in hosting culinary events such as the “International Food and Tour Festival”, as well as its promotion of exchange between different food cultures was also recognized.

UNESCO established the Creative Cities Network at the end of 2004 to support social, economic and cultural development. The cities that join the network promote their local creative scene, share their experience with a wider audience, and create new opportunities, especially in collaboration with other member cities, to drive joint development results for creative industries. The development of partnerships between the public and private sectors is a key feature of the network.

With Shanghai and Chengdu, the Creative Cities Network now has 21 members.

  • 12-03-2010