Beijing refreshes foreign language website, streamlining services for foreign residents

In a push to improve services for foreign residents and businesses, the city of Beijing has overhauled its foreign language website to offer easier access to key information and showcase the charm of the Chinese capital for a more welcoming experience.

The updated site, officially the International Web Portal of Beijing, was launched on Thursday and is available in nine languages.

Foreign residents and visitors can even share their feedback and submit questions when trying navigate the city's services or do business.

"This website provides answers from real staff in response to specific questions," said Loan Budura, a Romanian foreign resident.

Newcomers to the city may find useful video guides on the site to help them get settled, covering topics like how to use public transit and how to connect a bank card for mobile payments.

Meanwhile, foreign-funded enterprises and investors can use it as a platform to find helpful information on the city's economic development to better engage with Beijing's diverse array of industries.

"I think it really covers all of what foreigners want about business and about life in Beijing," said Srikhayan Chamaiporn, another resident from Thailand.

The front page of the site also provides regularly updated calendar information on art performances, sports events, and tourist activities in Beijing.

"The International Web Portal of Beijing has undergone a significant transformation. Our aim is to make every foreign national to feel warm welcome to this metropolis by showcasing Beijing's unique charm, innovative vitality, and boundless opportunities. This year, we will focus on enhancing both foreign-related government and public services," said Zhang Li, director of the Beijing Municipal Administration of Government Services and Data Management.

Local policy experts stressed that boosting access to event information is key to fostering cross-cultural and international exchanges.

"More and more large-scale exhibitions and conferences have been held in Beijing to promote the appeal of the country and the city. Additionally, (we need to invite) more foreign friends to visit Beijing," said Ma Liang, a professor of public administration at Renmin University of China.

Beijing refreshes foreign language website, streamlining services for foreign residents

China advocates continued practical and constructive dialogue among all relevant parties for a lasting solution to the Kosovo issue, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian at a press briefing in Beijing on Tuesday, when asked to comment on an explosion in Kosovo.

It is reported that the explosion on a canal sending water to two power plants in northern Kosovo led to Kosovo and Serbia exchanging allegations against each other.

"China noted the reports and condemns acts that damage important infrastructure. On the Kosovo issue, China, as always, respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Serbia, and calls on relevant parties to continue engaging in practical and constructive dialogue and actively seek a lasting solution to the issue. In this process, the security and lawful rights and interests of all ethnic groups in Kosovo should be protected," said Lin.

China advocates continued constructive dialogue on Kosovo issue: spokesman