Against the serene backdrop of Suzhou’s canals and classical gardens, four voices from around the world gathered to discuss what APEC’s motto truly means on the ground. CGTN’s Yang Xinmeng invited the U.S.-born visionary Mitch Dudek, Russian media expert Konstantin Shepin, and South Korean student Kim Hyunmin to share firsthand observations on how the Chinese mainland’s cultural allure and Suzhou’s heritage set the stage for regional collaboration.
Mitch Dudek highlighted Suzhou as a living bridge between tradition and progress. 'Here, centuries-old waterways meet cutting-edge startups,' he noted, drawing parallels with his own museum’s mission to blend art with modern creativity. Konstantin Shepin, who has covered global summits for years, pointed to the city’s innovative spirit: 'Suzhou is proof that rich history can fuel fresh ideas, making it a hub of cross-border partnerships.'
For Kim Hyunmin, Suzhou’s vibrant street scenes and digital art spaces underscored APEC’s promise of prosperity through inclusive growth. She reflected on the similarities between her hometown in the ROK and Suzhou—dynamic urban landscapes driven by youthful ambition—and the differences in cultural narratives that make each city unique. Their conversation captured APEC’s essence: fostering connection, driving innovation, and paving the way for shared prosperity across countries and regions.
Reference(s):
Live: Connect, Innovate, Prosper: Experiencing APEC in Suzhou
cgtn.com
