To study, promote and implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and carry out the Regulations of Beijing Municipality on Improving Language Environment for International Exchanges, Xicheng District Foreign Affairs Office recently hosted "The World in My Eyes" English Public Speaking Contest with multiple departments, to act on the decision and instructions of Xicheng District Committee on the project of "Increasing Work Efficiency and Enhancing Officials' Competence".

The contest consisted of two stages: the preliminary and the final. Over 70 departments from the District enthusiastically participated in the contest with over 150 works submitted. After the review by experts, 15 entrants stood out to reach the final. In the lively final, entrants delivered speeches in standard and fluent English on several topics such as "Chinese Path to Modernization - Xicheng Story", "Center for International Exchanges", and "Positive International Image of the City". Based on their own work experience, they told the stories of the Xicheng District in a vivid and interesting manner. The natural expression and sincere emotions reflected the deep thoughts and feelings of Xicheng youth, winning warm applause from the judges and audience.

Experts and scholars from Beijing Foreign Studies University, Beijing Language and Culture University, and other institutions were invited to evaluate the entrants from various aspects including speech content, language proficiency, manner, and audience response. The entrants said that the Contest provided them with a platform for learning, sharing, and showcasing English skills. They were very pleased to have the opportunity to spread English and participate in the activities of Xicheng District in improving its international language environment.

In recent years, Xicheng District has been standardizing foreign-language signs while encouraging citizens to speak foreign languages, continuously improving its international language environment. As an innovative activity to promote and implement the Regulations in Xicheng District, the Contest was part of the efforts of the District to increase work efficiency and enhance officials' competence to improve the foreign language abilities of officials and demonstrate their competence, thus injecting new vitality into Xicheng's branded events in encouraging citizens to speak foreign languages.