GUO WANDA, vice president of the Shenzhen-based China Development Institute (CDI), said the city is perfectly placed to host the Universiade in 2011 because of its unique position, great infrastructure and rich experience in hosting international events.

Separated from Hong Kong only by a narrow river, Shenzhen will benefit from the reputable international city if it can win the bid, said Guo, who is currently researching on the further integration of Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

"Shenzhen is not alone as a host. The economic integration, nongovernmental contact and government impetus have put the two cities in the process of becoming a living circle," he said.

The close cooperation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen in high-tech, finance and logistics sectors, and exchange of professionals have helped create a new megapolis combining the best of both cities.

With a sound and speedy traffic network linked by Metro lines, underground railways and the Western Corridor linking Hong Kong and Shenzhen, athletes and tourists from all over the world will be guaranteed convenient and easy services including accommodation, restaurants, shopping malls and sightseeing in the two cities, Guo said.

Guo, who specializes in macro-economics, said the Universiade 2011, if held in Shenzhen, would happen at the perfect time as Shenzhen has made detailed plans to increase significant investment in sports facilities and transportation between 2006 and 2010 in the city's 11th Five-Year Program.

According to the program, Shenzhen will establish sports centers in its six districts and invest 5 billion yuan (US$625 million) in the Universiade City, Guo said.

In terms of traffic facilities, the city government will invest 200 billion yuan on traffic in five years. All five Metro lines will be in use by then, with the third line connecting the Universiade City with the downtown area. The Bus Rapid Transit will be built, the runways of the Shenzhen airport will be expanded, and a network of trunk lines will be formed.

Shenzhen has high-quality tourism services, star hotels and restaurants, and has been accommodating foreigners for a long time, making the city the best choice for hosting an international sports meet, Guo said.

"The city has been tested and proved in good order when hosting such international activities," he said.

Editor: Yan