Beijing's Shunyi district improves services for foreign residents

Shunyi district in Beijing has stepped up efforts to attract and support foreign residents, according to vice-Party chief and district head Cui Xiaohao.

Home to the largest area of free-trade zones in the capital, and a key national demonstration zone for opening up the services sector, Shunyi has around 10,000 foreign residents, according to official statistics.

The district has installed 14,000 bilingual signs and set up 38 foreign-language service counters in government halls at the district and township levels. It also offers bilingual announcements on six bus routes and has added bilingual functions to 30,000 shared bicycles.

Shunyi is a hub for international healthcare, with 14 hospitals, including the country's first international facility, United Family Healthcare. This year, it welcomed the International Medical Center of Beijing Friendship Hospital and the International Clinic under Peking University's School and Hospital of Stomatology, according to Cui.

Education is another draw. The district hosts 11 international schools enrolling about 40 percent of all foreign students in Beijing.

"We will continue to promote innovation and entrepreneurship, optimize the business climate, enhance the living and cultural environment, and improve local infrastructure and services for foreign residents," Cui said.