Forbes - Voices From China

2009.28.09

A man who helped transform Beijing s cityscape reflects on the future of his city.

Panshiyi

The past decade has been one of fast growth for Beijing. The scale of change, the speed of economic development and globalization have exceeded what large Western cities have accomplished across several decades.

As China passes through a period of rapid urbanization, Beijing will undergo further development. Two trends will be important to watch for:

As our rail and subway network expands, relations between cities will become closer. Transportation will become increasingly convenient. Beijing s influence will expand into nearby cities and regions, stimulating their simultaneous economic development.

Because of Beijing s special standing in Chinese history, culture and politics, its appeal to people in other cities is strong. In the future, even more people will take advantage of increasingly quick and convenient transportation links to Beijing to sightsee, shop, tour and just to enjoy Beijing s modern facilities. This will further boost Beijing s own business development.

The spread of the Internet and mobile phone technology will spawn new opportunities for growth.

As these changes unfold, Beijing s leadership will strengthen. This great city will welcome even greater progress. More people will love Beijing and enjoy spending time in this magnificent city that is full of opportunity.

I remember a writer once wrote of a city: "This city forever will not fade and age, because every day, people are rushing toward a splendid spring." Beijing is this kind of city.

Pan Shiyi and his wife Zhang Xin co-founded Soho China, which has developed several landmark office buildings in Beijing. Pan is also one of China s most popular bloggers.