Earlier this week on November 18 (local time), China Media Group's Film and TV Translation & Production Center hosted a premiere of the documentary "Hotline Beijing" in St. Petersburg, Russia. The event drew more than 30 representatives from political, academic and cultural circles, eager to explore Beijing's innovative 12345 public service hotline.
Just days later, on November 21, CMG's African Headquarters and the Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University co-hosted a screening in Ethiopia's capital. Around 150 guests—including officials, media professionals, university staff and students—gathered to discuss how seven real-world stories illustrate a people-centered approach to mega-city management.
Directed by CMG's China News Service Film and Television Group, "Hotline Beijing" follows residents as they raise requests or voice complaints through the hotline, showcasing how each concern receives high-level government attention. Viewers in St. Petersburg praised the mechanism as swift problem-solving in practice and a window into innovation from the Chinese mainland. Ethiopian attendees, including university president Samuel Kifle, highlighted the film's global relevance amid rapid urbanization, seeing it as a blueprint for combining theory with hands-on solutions.
Beyond its compelling narratives, the documentary resonates with young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers exploring smart-city trends. By breaking down complex governance models into relatable stories, "Hotline Beijing" sparks conversations on public service, digital engagement and sustainable urban growth—topics at the forefront of city planning from Moscow to Addis Ababa.
Reference(s):
'Hotline Beijing' debuts internationally to audience acclaim
cgtn.com
