Shanghai Daily news

A launch ceremony for the English-language version of the Zhabei District government Website was held last Thursday, attended by local government officials as well as expatriates and overseas students who work and live in Zhabei District.
The Website (www.shzb.gov.cn/en) helps to highlight Zhabei's dynamism for local and foreign residents, with information about the district's activities in business investments, community services, leisure and entertainment, health care and education as well as offering a "district director mailbox" service, which provides online answers to questions.
"With economic globalization and international cooperation, it is necessary for Zhabei to take this initiative to merge into the world development and make every effort to seek international cooperation and exchanges," said the Zhabei District Director Yin Hong.
"Therefore, it really is a priority for us to make good use of the Internet, which is the most direct, speedy and effective channel to strengthen communication with the rest of the world and enhance mutual understanding by launching the English version of 'Shanghai Zhabei.'It is based on the integration of the relevant information of the existing government Website," he added.
Benefitting expats
 "An increasing number of expatriates and overseas students are landing in Zhabei district, where they find it convenient, comfortable and cheerful to work and live. However, when it comes to obtaining information about the local district, the original Chinese version Website of Zhabei does not satisfy their needs. Consequently, the English version Website is greatly needed," said Wang Lixin, another official from Zhabei District government.
Expats who have been involved in the preparation process for the launch of the English-language version of "Shanghai Zhabei" were awarded honorary "Zhabei Internet citizenship" at the ceremony and encouraged to continue providing advice and suggestion for the new Website.
Arowob Bola from Nigeria expressed her joy at her family being awarded honorary netizenship at the ceremony.
"I came to Shanghai with my family. It is hard for me to know more about the neighborhood where we live in terms of its culture, customs and habits and the best way to get around, because I read little Chinese. Fortunately, however, the successful launching of the English version Website will bring me and the thousands of other foreigners who live and work in Zhabei many benefits. We'll be able to better understand Chinese culture, and vital information for daily life. We will work hard to share innovative ideas with the local authorities," said Bola.
In 2005, Zhabei's economic and social development involved several major achievements, and the comprehensive economic strength of the district grew exponentially.
A number of renowned corporations both domestic and international have established businesses in Zhabei and a host of international business travelers, CEOs and overseas students have visited Zhabei for various cooperation programs.
The local government is also looking to set up a non-language-obstacle platform to offer expats even more efficient services.
"I hope the English-language version of 'Shanghai Zhabei' will become a bridge for communication and cooperation between Zhabei and the rest of the world," said Yin.