Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the newly released development action plan for the "urban agglomeration integration" in the Yangtze River Delta, highlighting the collaboration among six major urban agglomerations: Shanghai, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Wuxi, Changzhou, Hefei, and Ningbo, aiming to enhance the effects of integration and cooperation [4][5]. Group 1: Urban Agglomeration Characteristics - The Yangtze River Delta is home to six urban agglomerations, which is significant given that there are over 30 relatively mature urban agglomerations across the country [5]. - The Yangtze River Delta urban agglomeration is one of the three world-class city clusters in China, alongside the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area [7][8]. - Urban agglomerations typically have a single core city and aim for a "one-hour commuting circle," while city clusters encompass multiple urban agglomerations and focus on integration [9][10]. Group 2: Interconnectedness of Urban Agglomerations - The urban agglomerations in the Yangtze River Delta are not strictly defined; they overlap and interconnect, creating a complex network [16]. - The Shanghai urban agglomeration is the strongest, encompassing the Suzhou and Ningbo urban agglomerations, forming a "1+8" or "1+13" super circle [16]. - The Nanjing urban agglomeration spans across Jiangsu and Anhui provinces, indicating the cross-regional nature of these urban agglomerations [18]. Group 3: Competitive Dynamics - The Yangtze River Delta does not have a dominant provincial capital but rather strong urban agglomerations that thrive through market selection rather than administrative consolidation [22][23]. - This competitive dynamic allows ordinary cities to benefit from multiple urban agglomerations, enhancing their development opportunities [25][26]. - The article emphasizes the importance of abandoning the "strong provincial capital" mindset in favor of a more collaborative approach among cities [27][28]. Group 4: Development Strategies for World-Class City Clusters - The central government supports the development of world-class city clusters, including the Yangtze River Delta, which aims to break down barriers to resource allocation and market integration [30][31]. - Key strategies include building cross-city transportation networks, enhancing cooperation between urban agglomerations, and fostering industrial and technological collaboration [32][35][39]. - The article outlines a comprehensive plan for coordinated development, including infrastructure connectivity, innovation collaboration, and shared public services [42][43].