Chinese search engine company Baidu has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the municipal government of Shenzhen, marking the comprehensive launch of Baidu’s investment project in the city.

Under the agreement, the two parties will utilize Shenzhen’s advantages in talent, information, finance, supporting facilities, policy, and legal environment as well as Baidu’s strength in the Internet sector to accelerate the development of the Internet industry in Shenzhen.

Wang Rong, acting mayor of Shenzhen, said at the signing ceremony that the Shenzhen government attaches great importance to the development of the Internet industry and it has launched a series of plans and policies to create development spaces for Internet enterprises. The comprehensive launch of Baidu’s investment project in Shenzhen is expected to enhance the company’s influence in China’s southern areas and even in Southeast Asia. It will promote the innovative development of China’s Internet industry and will help Shenzhen’s construction of a national innovative city.

Robin Li, chairman and CEO of Baidu, said according to the agreement, Baidu will build its international headquarters, a South China regional headquarters, and a research and development center in Shenzhen. It will also strengthen its industrial cooperation with the city.