Government officials and overseas returnees pose for a group photo at Hefei National High-tech Industry Development Zone in Anhui province on Jan 18. [Photo from WeChat account hefeigaoxinfabu]

A symposium for high-caliber professionals, especially those who have returned to China after completing studies abroad, was held with nearly 40 people in attendance in Hefei, capital of Anhui province on Jan 18.

Officials from the city's office of foreign and overseas Chinese affairs, as well as the bureau of foreign expert affairs, introduced the general situation of returned students who are employed or self-employed in Hefei. They encouraged people who have been residing overseas to do innovative work and start businesses in the city.

At the symposium, officials explained the talent policies of the Hefei National High-tech Industry Development Zone and the policies that have been launched exclusively for returnees, introduced the latest investment and financing trends, as well as the development of the most advanced industries of the zone such as artificial intelligence.

Those who have achieved successful careers in the high-tech zone were invited to share their experiences and understandings.

The attendees exchanged ideas at the symposium and extended their hope to make contributions to the zone's transformation into a world-class innovation area with more international clout.