Wang Yuanyuan

Gary Locke, governor of the U.S. state of Washington from 1997 to 2005, said Shenzhen, through technology, would have numerous opportunities for the development of its cultural industry.

"Shenzhen does not have as rich a history as Beijing and Shanghai, but through the use of technology, the cultural industry can grow very fast," Locke, the first Chinese-American governor in U.S. history, said shortly after his arrival in the city Wednesday evening.

"Shenzhen's technology can develop virtual tools for people in China who do not have opportunities to look at the culture in other places. The high technology in Shenzhen can benefit all of China as well as creating jobs," he said.

"I like Shenzhen very much, the parks, arts and beautiful architectures like Citizens' Center. I'm so amazed by how Shenzhen was made and how young people are in this city. I've been here several times and it is a very beautiful city," he added.

"I'm very proud of the improvement of the quality of life in Guangdong," said Locke, whose grandfather was born in Taishan City, Guangdong Province. "It was very emotional feeling when I first went to Taishan," Locke said.

Locke was invited by the Shenzhen Municipal Government to attend the fourth China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industry Fair (ICIF). He will give a keynote speech focusing on the importance of understanding traditional Chinese culture at a summit forum at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center on Friday, after the opening ceremony of the ICIF.

Locke, who received a JD degree from Boston University, is now the partner of Davis Wright Tremaine Law Firm headquartered in Seattle. During his time as governor, Washington was chosen by Governing Magazine as one of the five U.S. states under the best administration.