Studying in Two Business Hubs

German and Chinese economic relations have become increasingly important as Germany is China's leading trading partner in Europe while China is Germany's most important economic partner in Europe. The great amount of diversity, its innovation and rich tradition make Germany an interesting economic partner for China.

Located in the south-west of Germany, Mannheim is characterized by a unique blend of innovative enterprises, brilliant scientific research and highest quality of life. 50 % of Germany's top 500 companies are based within 250 kilometers of Mannheim. Among them are Daimler, Porsche, SAP, BASF, Bilfinger Berger, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen, MLP, Roche Diagnostics and Fuchs Petrolub. What makes the Mannheim area so successful is its readiness to learn as well as the close integration and interaction of science and business. When developing new techniques, the research institutes work hand in hand with the enterprises.

In its 400 year history, Mannheim and its inhabitants have shown a high degree of inventive spirit: Mannheim's amazed public witnessed the presentation of the first operating automobile, constructed by Carl Friedrich Benz. Resourceful Mannheimers also invented the bicycle, the electric driven elevator and the first tractor for farming machines. In Mannheim, the first rocket-driven airplane took to the air, and ABB developed the polyphase generator used in high-speed trains.

Apart from the dynamic economy and efficient research and teaching, the region offers a multifaceted cultural life as well as an abundance of recreational opportunities. The Palatinate, Germany's largest wine-growing region, Heidelberg with its romantic flair and the Odenwald's many castles shape the region's profile. In addition, the area benefits from an outstanding infrastructure and Frankfurt, the financial hub of Germany, is a mere 40 minutes drive or train ride away.

Find out more about Mannheim and the Rhine Neckar Metropolitan Region here: www.wishyouwerehere.de

Shanghai is the largest center of finance, trade and commerce in mainland China, and is considered to be the 'showpiece' of the world's fastest-growing major economy. With a population of nearly 19 million, Shanghai is the largest city in China and due to the constant inflow of people from other parts of the country, its population keeps growing.

As in many other areas in China, Shanghai is currently undergoing a building boom. The modern architecture in Shanghai is remarkable for its unique style. Due to its cosmopolitan history, Shanghai has a rich blend of religious heritage as shown by the religious buildings and institutions still scattered around the city. The city has many rivers, canals, streams and lakes and is known for its rich water resources as part of the Taihu drainage area. Shanghai has an extensive public transport system including a rapidly expanding metro system. Historical landmarks such as the City God Temple and the Bund as well as the modern and ever-expanding Pudong skyline including the Oriental Pearl Tower make Shanghai a popular tourist destination.

There is now a strong focus by city planners to develop more 'green areas' among the apartment complexes in order to improve the quality of life for Shanghai's residents. This is in accordance to the 'Better City-Better Life' theme of Shanghai's Expo 2010. The fact that the Expo is held in Shanghai gives expression to the expectations the world's people place on China's future development.