何建华专栏：工业化与城市化“双轮驱动”的国家奇迹

Core Viewpoint - The rapid industrialization and urbanization in China since the establishment of the People's Republic and the reform and opening-up policy have created remarkable economic growth and social stability, positioning China as a modern nation with a successful transition from an agrarian society to an industrialized and urbanized one [1][2][15]. Group 1: Industrialization and Urbanization - China's industrialization and urbanization have progressed simultaneously, achieving a scale and speed unprecedented in human history, with urbanization rates increasing significantly from 1949 to 2024 [2][3]. - The urban population in China grew from approximately 5.765 million in 1949 to 943.5 million by the end of 2024, marking an increase of over 88 million people, which is nearly double the total population of the EU [3]. - The urbanization rate increased by 56 percentage points from 1949 to 2024, and by 49.08 percentage points from 1978 to 2024, significantly faster than many developed countries [3]. Group 2: Stages of Urbanization - The urbanization process in China has undergone three stages: individual city development, metropolitan area collaboration, and high-quality integrated development facilitated by high-speed rail and the internet [4]. - The current urbanization phase is characterized by rapid expansion of mega-cities, leading to challenges such as "big city diseases" [4]. Group 3: Global Context and Sustainable Development - The United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development emphasizes inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities, with cities contributing over 80% of global GDP [5]. - As a rapidly industrializing and urbanizing nation, China's advancements in urban development can serve as a model for global civilization progress [5][15]. Group 4: Cultural Dynamics in Urban Development - Urban culture is shaped by the interaction between individuals and the physical structure of cities, influencing how people experience and contribute to urban life [6]. - The cultural dynamics of cities involve consumption patterns, creative classes, and urban scenes that drive innovation and transformation [10]. Group 5: Future Directions and Challenges - The transition towards a knowledge-based society necessitates a shift in urban development strategies, focusing on creative industries rather than traditional manufacturing [9]. - The integration of urban and rural areas is essential for sustainable development, with a focus on enhancing the quality of life and ecological balance [13][14].