如何读懂中央城市工作会议

Core Viewpoint - The recent Central Urban Work Conference marks a significant moment in China's urban development strategy, reflecting a shift from rapid growth to stable development and emphasizing the need for quality improvement in existing urban areas [1][4]. Historical Context - The frequency of urban work conferences has been low, but each has had a profound impact on urban construction, economic development, and social welfare [2]. - The first urban work conference in New China was held in 1949, marking a strategic shift in focus from rural to urban issues [2]. - The most recent conference is the second of its kind in the new era, occurring ten years after the last one, indicating a synchronized planning approach for urban and national development [1][2]. Urban Development Trends - Since the reform and opening up, China has experienced the largest and fastest urbanization process in world history, with the urbanization rate rising from nearly 18% in 1978 to nearly 55% in 2014, and projected to reach 67% by the end of 2024 [3]. - The number of cities in China increased from 193 in 1978 to 653 in 2014, and reached 694 by the end of 2023 [4]. Strategic Shifts in Urban Development - The recent conference identified a transition in urbanization from rapid growth to stable development, focusing on quality improvement rather than quantity expansion [4]. - The conference proposed a strategic orientation towards "in-depth urban development," emphasizing the construction of innovative, livable, beautiful, resilient, civilized, and smart modern cities [4]. Key Relationships in Urban Work - The relationship between cities and people is crucial, with a focus on a people-centered development approach [5]. - The relationship between urban and rural areas is emphasized, highlighting the need for integrated development and the importance of rural revitalization alongside urban growth [5]. - The relationship between cities and regions is also critical, advocating for coordinated regional development and a holistic approach to urban planning [6].