In a significant move to accelerate China’s modernization efforts, President Xi Jinping visited Rizhao Port in east China’s Shandong Province this week. Built after China’s reform and opening up, Rizhao Port has evolved into a vital global hub for the transshipment of energy and bulk raw materials.
Recent technological innovations have upgraded the port into a modern facility, positioning it as a key node for the New Eurasian Land Bridge and an essential hub for the Belt and Road Initiative. Five years ago, Rizhao Port joined forces with Qingdao Port, Yantai Port, and Bohai Bay Port to form the Shandong Port Group Co., Ltd. Last year, the collective cargo throughput of these four ports exceeded 1.7 billion tonnes, ranking them first globally.
During his visit, Xi Jinping acknowledged the remarkable achievements of the Shandong Port Group and urged the province to build a high-level platform for major international exchanges and cooperation. “Reform is the driving force for development,” Xi emphasized while chairing a symposium in Jinan, which was attended by representatives from businesses and academia.
He called for deepening reform further on all fronts, focusing on the overarching goals of improving and developing the socialist system with Chinese characteristics and modernizing China’s governance system and capacity. By championing innovation and embracing reform, China aims to enhance its role in the global economy and foster sustainable development.
Reference(s):
Eyeing Chinese modernization, China doubles efforts to deepen reform
cgtn.com
