Italian Carabinieri policeman Fernando Giorgi: Sino-Italian joint patrol as a new landmark for the opening-up of China

Before the interview, Fernando and his Italian colleague Giovanni had just finished their patrol on Golden Street in the Changning Gubei Community. This was the first time for Fernando to visit China and he showed great appreciation for the internationalization of Shanghai. "We have been patrolling Shanghai for about ten days including several major residential, commercial or tourist areas. I saw numerous shops along the streets with a rich array of commodities and among them many are imported goods," Fernando said with excitement. "And there are plenty of foreign restaurants. We've already tried hometown dishes here in Italian restaurants." Besides these more familiar delights, the enthusiasm of Shanghai citizens has impressed him a lot. "During our joint patrol with Chinese fellow police officers, many citizens we came across asked where we are from initially. Once they knew we are Italians, they all smiled and showed their great interest in Italy. All of these clearly show that Shanghai is very open and friendly to foreign culture and people."

 

Fernando and his colleague communicating with a local resident in English

According to Fernando, the Sino-Italian joint police patrol’s purpose is mainly to serve Italian tourists here by solving their problems or answering their inquiries. In spite of its service nature, this cooperation also provides a rare opportunity of exchange and mutual learning for the Chinese and Italian police. "The Chinese police are of high quality and well-equipped. For example, a mobile police light is worn on the right shoulder, aiming to let residents find them more easily when patrolling. This small detail shows their consideration for the people.” Fernando was full of praise for the Chinese police. For better communication, the two Chinese police officers assigned to participate in the joint patrol can both speak fluent Italian. This made Fernando and his colleague more satisfied with the treatment they received here in Shanghai.

 

The Chinese and Italian police officers patrolling the Bund together

For the construction of an international metropolis, security comes first to Shanghai and transnational police cooperation has also greatly promoted Shanghai's urban security level and city image. Many foreign tourists said joint police patrols made them feel that Shanghai is a safe city. Fernando couldn’t agree more. “No doubt Shanghai is quite safe. However, since a great number of foreigners live here, transnational police cooperation is indispensable. In addition to our joint patrol, the information exchange is also necessary for combating transnational crimes.”