Zhongshan

Sun Yat-sen, one of the most prominent figures in Chinese history, passed away on March 12, 1925, due to liver cancer. Sun was a key figure in the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and was instrumental in the establishment of the Republic of China. He was a unifying symbol of modern China. Born in Cuiheng, a village in Zhongshan, he is often considered the 'Father of the Nation' in both mainland China and Taiwan. His legacy continues to influence Chinese political culture.

The Zhongshan Torch Development Zone was established as one of the first national-level high-tech industrial development zones in China. Approved in 1981, the zone has been a driving force for technological innovation, industrial restructuring, and economic growth in Zhongshan. It has attracted a variety of high-tech enterprises focusing on areas such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, and new materials, laying the foundation for Zhongshan's modern industrial economy.

In 1983, Zhongshan was designated as a prefecture-level city in Guangdong Province, China. Prior to this designation, it was administered as a county. The change in administrative status marked a significant step in the urban development and administrative restructuring of the region. Zhongshan has since developed into an economically vibrant city with a strong focus on manufacturing and international trade, benefiting from its proximity to Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and the Pearl River Delta economic zone.

In 1998, Zhongshan was selected as a pilot city for comprehensive state-owned enterprise (SOE) reform in China. This initiative aimed to transform inefficient state-run businesses into more competitive and market-oriented entities. Through these reform efforts, many previously struggling or uncompetitive enterprises became more profitable, contributing to the overall economic prosperity and modernization of Zhongshan. This initiative also set an example for other cities.

In December 2000, Zhongshan joined the Pearl River Delta Economic Zone, an important economic and industrial region in China. The inclusion significantly boosted the city's economic development, integrating it into one of the most dynamic economic areas in the world. Zhongshan has since become known for its manufacturing and trade industries, particularly in electronics and electrical household appliances, contributing to both regional and national economic growth.

On May 12, 2008, the devastating Wenchuan Earthquake struck Sichuan province, affecting millions of people. Zhongshan City, leveraging its economic strength, played a significant role in the disaster relief efforts. Over the following months, Zhongshan provided substantial financial and material support to the affected areas, aiding in recovery and reconstruction processes. The city's compassion and support were widely acknowledged and praised at national levels.

Zhongshan Polytechnic was officially inaugurated in March 2009 as a key educational institution aiming to enhance vocational education in the region. The polytechnic is designed to meet the local demand for skilled professionals in various fields, particularly in manufacturing and technology sectors. Its establishment marked a new chapter in the educational and professional landscape of Zhongshan, reinforcing its commitment to education and economic development.

In 2010, Zhongshan began hosting the China (Guzhen) International Lighting Fair, one of the largest trade fairs dedicated to lighting products in the world. Held annually in Guzhen Town, the fair attracts thousands of exhibitors and buyers globally, solidifying Zhongshan's reputation as the 'Lighting Capital of China.' This event showcases the city's vital role in the lighting industry and contributes significantly to its economy, benefiting local businesses and professionals.

Zhongshan played a significant part in the ambitious infrastructure project of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, which officially opened on September 26, 2011. The bridge connects Hong Kong with Macau and Zhuhai, greatly enhancing transportation and economic ties within the region. The opening of this bridge has made travel more convenient, fostering economic integration and tourism. It represents a significant step in regional connectivity and economic collaboration.

On July 20, 2021, Zhongshan initiated a comprehensive city-wide COVID-19 vaccination campaign in response to the global pandemic. This effort was aimed at achieving high vaccination coverage to ensure public health safety and allow normal economic and social activities to resume. The campaign focused on reaching all eligible residents with various measures such as mobile vaccination clinics and public awareness initiatives, demonstrating effective public health governance.