Guangzhou govt launches English Weibo account

The government of Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, launched its official English account on Sina Weibo, the Chinese equivalent of Twitter, on Monday, to help foreigners better understand the city.

"The English online communication service targets expatriates and visitors from overseas who are interested in Guangzhou's history, culture and government information. We will make the knowledge of the city more accessible," said Ou Caiqun, head of the city government's information office.

The account, @Guangzhou-China, has six sections - international exchanges, business news, Cantonese culture, official data, special reports and online surveys, covering foreign affairs, economy, culture, education and immigration policy as well as local folk festivals, scenic landmarks, transport and food.

Ou said Guangzhou has 32 sister cities in 29 countries, and 46 countries have set up consulates in Guangzhou, where a growing number of foreigners work, study and live.