Kinder, Gentler Zhongshan

As early as 1987, the municipal government of Zhongshan adopted the slogan "Putting equal emphasis on economy and ecology." Over the next 20 years or so, the city pulled out all the stops to improve its environment. Their efforts paid off. They have won awards citing their accomplishments as "national garden-like city," "national model city in environmental protection," "excellent tourist city," and they even won the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour Award. Those accolades are the best possible publicity for its investment environment.

More than 100 years ago Sun Yat-sen advised, "Developing civilization is not only related to wealth, but also to people's happiness and safety." The modern city should be a resting place for a person's soul. While many cities are worrying about the widening gap between rich and poor, Zhongshan is investing 60 percent of its revenue and 70 percent of its newly income margins to projects related to people's general welfare. Full coverage has been realized in five respects: comfortable housing, robust communication networks, access to health and medical care, equalized education, and cultural and sports facilities. It has joined the ranks of China's top ten cities in terms of its "sense of happiness" and "harmonious character."

A city suitable for pioneering, innovation and a well-rounded lifestyle is what the people of Zhongshan have created with their own development mode – one that incorporates scientific advancements with the humanistic compass points of "charity, innovation, tolerance and harmony." Their pursuit of these "Three Suitables" has shaped the city's unique temperament and charm, which we have to pay three compliments: it is delightful, fascinating and unforgettable.