Chinese cities light up for World Children's Day

Cities and communities in China lit up their iconic buildings on Tuesday to celebrate World Children's Day.

The cities of Beijing, Guiyang, Hohhot, Jinan, Jieyang and Shenzhen participated in the initiative. Joining UNICEF's global activation to "Go Blue," these cities are also holding online and offline events and forums to focus attention on creating a brighter future for children.

World Children's Day falls on November 20 each year.

In Beijing, the National Aquatics Center, or Water Cube, was lit up in blue by children and other participants.

"Lighting up the Water Cube symbolizes the lighting up of children's future and the pursuit of creating a better environment for children's development, so that every child can become a better self," said Zhang Chenxi, a 12-year-old student.

Child representatives announced their initiative for World Children's Day before the event.

"We call on the whole society to realize that children are the hope of the nation, the future of humanity; thus, the supportive environment requires the attention and efforts from everyone, from all walks of life!" the children's initiative read.

"Today is a global day of action 'for children, by children,'" said Rana Flowers, UNICEF representative to China.

UNICEF Ambassador Chen Kun joined the event to share his commitments to children's rights as well as to create a better world for children.

"The children have spoken up," said Chen Kun. "Let each one of us do our part in creating a better future for children."