On April 10, 2025, the Sheraton Hotel in Astana hosted the official presentation and launch ceremony of the international photo competition “The World is Beautiful Because of You (Guangzhou) – 2025.” The event marked the beginning of a series of cultural and humanitarian initiatives supported by Chinese and Kazakh partners.
The presentation was held under the auspices of the Publicity Office of the People’s Government of Guangzhou and organized by the China International Communications Group (CICG), through the China Center for International Communication and the Europe-Asia Communication Center (Renmin Huabao Publishing House) under the China Foreign Languages Publishing Administration. The event was co-organized by the China Studies Center (Kazakhstan).
The event brought together representatives of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Kazakhstan, the Akimat of Astana, scholars and experts from both countries in the fields of culture, art, photography and environmental protection, university professors, diaspora representatives, and members of the business community.
Welcome remarks were delivered by Mr. Xin Fanfan, Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Kazakhstan, Mr. Du Xinshan, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Guangzhou Committee, and Mr. Omiurzak Tleuzhan, Head of the Department of Tourism Development of the Astana Akimat. They emphasized the importance of deepening cultural dialogue and green cooperation between Guangzhou and Astana.
Ms. Yin Jie, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the China Center for International Communication, presented the goals of the contest, aimed at showcasing the natural beauty, green development, and cultural richness of Guangzhou. A promotional video was screened before the official ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked the opening of submissions.
The event also featured a symbolic cultural exchange — the transfer of the “Understanding China” book series to the China Studies Center in Kazakhstan. Attendees had the opportunity to explore an exhibition of selected photo works, publications on modern China, and enjoy authentic dishes from Guangzhou cuisine.
The initiative aims to promote President Xi Jinping’s vision of ecological civilization and highlight China’s efforts in environmental protection and green urban development, particularly in Guangzhou and the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area. It also contributes to strengthening people-to-people ties and mutual understanding between China and Kazakhstan.
