NPC deputies from Zhanjiang head for the Great Hall of the People on the morning of March 5. [Photo by Li Jin]

Zhanjiang will adapt to the economic “new normal”, and take opportunities from the country’s initiative?of developing marine economy to make big strides in development.

Wang Zhongbing, mayor of Zhanjiang city, told reporters that Zhanjiang has bright prospects as a marine city, when China is determined to develop marine economy, protect marine ecology and enhance marine scientific and technological level to become a maritime power in the world. He made the remarks after attending the opening ceremony of the Third Session of the 12th National People’s Congress, during which Premier Li Keqiang delivered the annual Government Work Report to China's lawmakers.

“The premier’s report summarized a series of great achievements our country made during last year, which is inspiring and makes us confident about China’s brilliant future,” Wang Zhongbing said.

Zhanjiang mayor Wang Zhongbing talks about Zhanjiang's development?blueprint to a reporter after the?opening ceremony of the?annual legislative session?on March 5. [Photo by Lu Zhibin]

Premier Li said that the comprehensive deepening of reform had made a good start in his report. The country is exploring new patterns and opportunities for economic development, and has made developing marine economy a priority. With its abundant marine resources and superior geographical position, Zhanjiang will try its best to develop innovation-driven marine economy, Wang Zhongbing said.

Premier Li mentioned in the Government Work Report that regional cooperation should be strengthened, especially the construction of the strategic pivots on land and sea should be given more weight. Wang Zhongbing said that Zhanjiang, as a strategic pivot city for maritime cooperation in China’s Belt and Road Initiatives, was shouldered with important mission.

He said Zhanjiang will develop modern industries and optimize hub port construction to form a port economic circle, which will further enhance Zhanjiang’s competitiveness in the Beibu Gulf regional cooperative pattern.

Wang Zhongbing said that Zhanjiang will adapt to the “new normal”, and encourage entrepreneurship and innovation to make a modern marine city.