Tianjin: Tianjin Municipality, a major port city in north China, is putting the finishing touches on its preparations to host the largest-ever Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, with leaders from more than 20 countries and heads of 10 international organizations set to attend the event.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Tianjin has undergone extensive upgrades in preparation for the summit. The Haihe River, which winds through the city, now glows with enhanced night views thanks to a lighting project covering 217 buildings, 14 bridges, and 8.2 km of waterfront. These upgraded night views are attracting an increasing number of tourists, with over 70 night cruises operating daily. Tickets are in high demand, said Fan Fukun, manager of Tianjin Jinlv Haihe Cruises Co., Ltd.
The municipal government has also focused on improving urban infrastructure, including smoothing roads, maintaining bridges, expanding green spaces, and strengthening public services. According to Hu Xuechun, director of the Tianjin Municipality Commission of Urban Management, these efforts have infused the city with “a stronger sense of vibrant local life, cultural depth, and international appeal.”
A team of nearly 1,000 youth volunteers from local universities have been trained in diplomatic etiquette, emergency response, and language services to support the SCO Summit. Wang Yutong, a translation volunteer from Tianjin Foreign Studies University, emphasized that the world will see not only Tianjin’s modern skyline and economic vitality but also its rich history and warm hospitality.
Community volunteers, including retirees, students, and Party members, have joined neighborhood “SCO service teams” to help create a friendly atmosphere. Yu Pengzhou, a Tianjin official involved in preparations, stated that they are making the most of this important opportunity to host the summit in Tianjin.
Sheradil Baktygulov, director of the Institute of World Policy of Kyrgyzstan, is full of anticipation for the summit, stating that it will become a guiding bright star during a difficult time of global turbulence, showing the right path to safe and stable development.