The Expert Evaluation of the Shanghai application report for the UNESCO’s “Creative Cities Network” was held in WHITRAP (Shanghai) on May 29th, 2009. Many distinguished experts home and board in the field of creative design were invited to participate in this meeting. They evaluated the application report and propose amendments.

Prof. Dr.-Ing Zhiqiang WU, President Assistant of Tongji University, vice Dean of College of Architecture and Urban Planning of Tongji University, Dean of Deign and Innovation Institute, Chief Planner of EXPO 2010 Shanghai China, was selected as the leader of expert committee by consensus. The member group includes Mr.Yue DU, Vice Secretary-General, Chinese National Commission for UNESCO, Mr. Wuxiu HUANG, Secretary-General, China Industrial Design Association, Ms. Xiaoming WANG, Deputy Director, Shenzhen Cultural & Creative Center, Mr. Shouchang HE, Deputy President, Shanghai Creative Industry Association, Mr. Wenlong CHEN, Member of Council, Global Industrial Design Association General Manager, Nova Design Ltd, Prof.Jean von Holstein, Chairman, International Silver Line Design Association, Prof. Lothar Spree, Film and Media Studies of Bauhaus-Universität Weimar.

On the basis of the presentation and application report, The application for joining the UNESCO’s “Creative Cities Network” by the Shanghai municipality with the theme of “DESIGN” is not only in accordance with its historical and cultural tradition, characterized by its magnanimous attitude and its inner spiritual disposition, but also a necessity for improving the secondary and tertiary industries and realizing sustainable development of economy and culture. Meanwhile, joining the Network helps Shanghai to establish the image of “creative city” and exert radiation influence both on the Yangtze River Delta and China in general. It demonstrates the responsibility and mission of Shanghai to impel the development of creative industry in China, Asia and the whole world.

In summary, the expert committee reached a consensus that the application report very well demonstrated the current situation and future vision of Shanghai creative industry, which fulfilled the basic requirements of the UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network. The report should be submitted to the UNESCO headquarter as soon as possible.