There has been a reversal of the brain drain since 1978 across the country. Between 1978 and 2007, about 7,000 overseas Chinese returned to Beijing after completing their studies abroad. They accounted for about 25% of all returnees nationwide. The year 2008 has witnessed a boom. The number of returnees came up to 15,000. By the end of 2010, a further 22,000 will have returned to this city.
The reversal of the brain drain mainly arises from three facts. Firstly, our government values overseas Chinese scholars highly, encourages them to return home to start their own careers and has worked out a series of preferential policies. In Beijing, the famous international city, they can enjoy a modern lifestyle. Secondly, China’s economy has been developing at a high speed, which provides them with a vast space of development. Many returnees have achieved outstanding success in scientific research or in high-level management. They are playing a more and more important role. Thirdly, the current global financial crisis leaves many overseas out of work or at the edge of being laid off. They feel more secure at home because the economy is more stable.
I hope that more overseas Chinese can head home. There is a bright future ahead of them.
