Beijing Foreign Affairs Office held the first Beijing Consular Protection Knowledge Contest on the occasion of the issuance of the Regulations of the People's Republic of China on Consular Protection and Assistance. It speaks volumes about the efforts made by the Office to study and implement Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era while acting on the philosophy of foreign affairs for the people. The Regulations and knowledge on consular protection and overseas security were promoted through interesting and engaging competition, which aims to protect Beijing citizens and institutions who seek development abroad.
Since its launch on June 20, the competition, which spanned over 120 days, has gained extensive attention from all walks of life, with more than 20,000 participants, including overseas students, foreign-related companies, and foreign affairs officials from 16 districts and Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (BDA). A panel of experts was formed, consisting of specialists in fields such as overseas security, law, and psychology from Peking University, China Foreign Affairs University, China University of Political Science and Law, and overseas study service providers. These specialists engaged in designing the question bank, conducting pre-competition training, addressing queries, scoring, and giving feedback. Twelve contestants emerged as the finalists after preliminary online quiz, pre-competition expert training, and a semifinal round.
In the final competition, the participants’ outstanding performance left an indelible mark on the audiences’ mind that "prevention is the best protection". Eventually, one first prize, two second prizes, three third prizes, and six excellent prizes were presented. After the organizers and judges awarded the trophies to the winners amidst enthusiastic applause from the audience, the First Beijing Consular Protection Knowledge Contest gained a full success.
All participants found the contest novel and meaningful. Such a platform allowed them to better understand consular protection, and learn and share tips on overseas security. Going forward, whether at work or in everyday life, the trainees will encourage more people to learn how to stay safe and be more aware of protecting themselves while abroad, and do more to promote consular protection.
The motherland is backing you up, while consular protection is with you. Going forward, Beijing Foreign Affairs Office will carry out preventive consular protection in various ways and improve the quality and effectiveness of such services, thus forging a strong shield to protect our citizens and enterprises.
