Chinese President Xi Jinping has doubled down on reforms to accelerate the nation’s modernization during a high-profile inspection of Shandong Province this week. The leader called for transforming the coastal region into a powerhouse of innovation and global connectivity, signaling fresh momentum for China’s economic ambitions.
Shandong’s Strategic Role
As China’s third-largest provincial economy and a historic hub of agriculture and industry, Shandong is now tasked with pioneering ‘high-level opening up’ – think automated ports, green tech, and next-gen infrastructure. Xi toured Rizhao Port’s futuristic container terminals, spotlighting how tech upgrades are boosting efficiency in traditional sectors.
People-Centric Progress
‘Modernization must improve lives,’ Xi emphasized while visiting a restored coastal greenway. His trip – his first since April’s key Politburo meeting – sets the stage for July’s major CPC plenary session, where reforms to drive ‘new quality productive forces’ (code for sustainable, tech-driven growth) will take center stage.
With Shandong home to 100 million residents and Confucian heritage, this blend of tradition and innovation could define China’s next chapter. Stay tuned!
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President Xi calls for furthering reform in Shandong inspection
cgtn.com