Media center for Belt, Road forum begins operations

The media center for the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, which will highlight the use of 5G technology, will officially open on Wednesday. It will provide services for about 4,100 accredited journalists, including 1,600 from foreign media outlets.

The latest advanced technologies in communication networks will provide a more efficient and convenient working environment for journalists, said Gao Wenqi, counselor at the Information Department of the Foreign Ministry.

Journalists also will be able to use virtual reality technology to "travel" to different Chinese cities while at the center, Gao said.

The forum's theme is "Belt and Road Cooperation, Shaping a Brighter Shared Future", and it aims to bring about high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road framework.

Around 290 volunteers will provide support services for the media.

The media center is located in exhibition halls 1 and 2 at the China National Convention Center. It covers 11,000 square meters and provides facilities for interviews, broadcasts, news conferences and catering.

The work area is equipped with 546 workspaces for journalists, 210 of which have desktop computers with Chinese and English systems.

Prayer rooms also are available.

A cultural exhibition features 110 photos showcasing the achievements of China's development over the past 70 years as well as the outcomes of jointly building the Belt and Road.

Journalists who have some time to relax will be able to delve into China's intangible cultural heritage through experiencing traditional Chinese painting, drawing and clay modeling at the center.

Nearly 5,000 foreign participants from more than 150 countries and over 90 international organizations have confirmed their attendance at the forum. That is a big increase from the 1,600 guests who attended the first forum in 2017.