CCTV:

The guideline listed measures to build Pudong into a pioneer area for socialist modernization. In what areas will Pudong play a leading role? Thank you.

Cong Liang:

Thanks for your question. Your question really touches on a key aspect of the guideline. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China steps into a new development stage of fully building a modern socialist country. In face of a complex and fast-changing situation, there are no precedents or prior experiences to follow. Therefore, advanced regions are needed to spearhead and become pioneers. The CPC Central Committee supports Pudong to become a pioneer for socialist modernization. In my opinion, its leading role will be reflected in the following four aspects:

First, it will lead in fostering the impetus for high-quality development. As the largest economic city in the country, Shanghai is positioned as international economic, financial, trade, shipping and technological innovation centers. Pudong will carry out the important function of helping Shanghai build itself into the "five centers". In order to fulfill the goal of becoming a pioneer area for socialist modernization, Pudong has to completely, accurately and comprehensively implement China's new development paradigm, and explore a creative path to transform philosophy into practice. In this way, Pudong will be able to foster a powerful momentum for regional development, and promote Shanghai to play a better role in leading the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta, so as to improve the overall efficiency of China's economy.

Second, it is reflected in promoting the realization of a high level of self-reliance and self-strengthening and a smooth economic cycle. Core technologies controlled by others are our biggest hidden risk. The key core technologies cannot be requested, bought or begged, so we can only depend on being self-reliant. Pudong has unique advantages in planning and initiating scientific and technological innovations. It should play the role of being the "vanguard force" or "national team" for key core technologies, and work as a trailblazer and leader in technological innovation, aiming at scaling the heights of the forefront fields of brain science, quantum technology and other areas. This is especially so in terms of solving the problem of cutthroat competition in key areas such as high-end integrated circuit components and basic software and hardware. On the basis of eliminating these bottlenecks and clearing circulation blockages, Pudong will further play its role as a key node in the smooth economic circulation, provide an important channel for better use of domestic and international markets and resources, and create an important hub for the global industrial chain, supply chain and value chain.

Third, it is reflected in the provision of high-level institutional supply. China's reform has entered a "deep-water zone," and some deep-level systematic and mechanism barriers have not been eliminated. Pudong must keep a close eye on important areas and key links, continue to deepen reforms, explore and develop good experiences and practices, and consolidate them in the form of laws and regulations in a timely manner, to provide greater high-level institutional innovation. For example, in terms of establishing a new open economic system, the local government should study open policies and institutional arrangements with strong international market competitiveness, and support Pudong to achieve breakthroughs in the fields of human resources, technology, capital and cross-border data circulation. In terms of finance, it should support Pudong in developing offshore RMB transactions, cross-border trade settlement and overseas financing services, and explore and improve related institutional arrangements. In terms of shipping, the local government should support Pudong in strengthening close connections among river, sea, land, air and rail transportation, explore integrated management systems and mechanisms, and implement a pilot ship registration management system that is in line with international practices.

Fourth, it is reflected in better practicing the people-centered development philosophy. Pudong should take the lead in implementing the concept of "people's city built by the people and for the people"; construct a systematic, complete, scientific, standardized and effective urban governance system; build a harmonious and beautiful ecological environment; develop the city into a beautiful home where people and nature coexist harmoniously; and explore a development path for the megacity with Chinese characteristics which embodies the characteristics of the era and highlights the advantages of China's socialist system. It is necessary to continuously improve the level of balance and quality of public services, leave the best resources for the people, and continuously improve the people's senses of gain, happiness and security. Thank you.