On Wednesday, 7 October, 22@Network Barcelona welcomed an institutional and business delegation from Shijingshan District, Beijing (China), comprising representatives of the Shijingshan District People's Government and Asia Data Group. The meeting focused on strengthening international cooperation and exploring new opportunities in innovation, technology, digital transformation and smart city development.

The delegation was welcomed by Isabel Sabadí, General Director of 22@Network Barcelona, who introduced the history and transformation of the 22@ Innovation District, highlighting its evolution from a former industrial area into a leading innovation ecosystem where companies, universities, research centres and public institutions coexist and collaborate.

During the meeting, representatives of Shijingshan District also presented their district's development model, strategic priorities and interest in establishing new partnerships with Barcelona's innovation ecosystem.

A New Strategic Cooperation Agreement

One of the key milestones of the visit was the signing of a Strategic Cooperation Agreement between Shijingshan District and 22@Network Barcelona, aimed at establishing a framework for future collaboration and strengthening connections between both innovation ecosystems.

The agreement opens the door to exploring joint initiatives in areas such as the development and management of innovation districts, industrial digitalisation, investment opportunities, artificial intelligence and smart city solutions.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange experiences on urban and technological transformation, identifying potential synergies between the industrial development strategies of Shijingshan District and the innovation ecosystem of 22@ Barcelona.

Exploring Technological Innovation with Eurecat

The second part of the meeting featured the participation of Joan Guasch, Director of Corporate Affairs at Eurecat, who presented the technology centre's expertise and capabilities in technological innovation, industrial digitalisation, artificial intelligence, data governance and smart city solutions.

The presentation highlighted potential opportunities for technological cooperation, including the development of joint projects, knowledge exchange and the application of advanced technologies to urban and industrial environments.

Particular attention was also given to digital exhibition spaces and immersive experiences, exploring how innovative technologies could contribute to the development of new spaces and experiences in Shijingshan District, including Shougang Park.

Strengthening International Innovation Connections

This institutional visit represents another step in 22@Network Barcelona's commitment to fostering international partnerships and connecting innovation ecosystems worldwide.

Through initiatives such as this, the association continues to promote knowledge exchange, technological cooperation and new opportunities for collaboration between companies, institutions and innovation stakeholders.

We thank the Shijingshan District delegation, Asia Data Group and Eurecat for their participation and commitment to exploring new avenues of cooperation between Barcelona and Beijing.