As a kind of chicken soup for the soul, the creative and cultural industries can help maintain a nation's spirits in times of adversity. The development of cultural tourism and heritage, museums and libraries, sports and outdoor activities are keys for improving a country's image and are considered a kind of "identity card".

The forum's activities also include presenting awards for memorable films, festivities, landmarks, TV series, folk arts and landscape galas. Such culture and creativity has played an important role in boosting the international image of China.

Chen Shaofeng, the deputy director of cultural industry institute at Peking University said, "Each city has its advantages. Beijing is a place of rich natural and human resources. Shanghai is famed for its blend of east and west, most notably in architecture. Shenzhen is at the forefront of innovation and change, and Hangzhou is best for promoting cultural tourism."

So how does cultural industry benefit cities? John So, the former and longest serving Lord Mayor in the city of Melbourne, shared his experience of turning the Australian metropolis into a vibrant cultural hub, driven by a powerful business engine.

The experts add that culture as a driving force for growth should not be separated from technology. Such a dual engine could, they say, power a change from "Made in China" to "Designed in China".

With this vision in sight, Beijing and many other Chinese cities can transform and find their place on the map as a hub for creativity and cultural diversity.

(CCTV January 16, 2009)