Core Viewpoint - The development of modern urban cities in China, characterized by innovation, livability, beauty, resilience, civilization, and intelligence, is significantly supported by development zones, which play a crucial role in urban modernization and high-quality development [1][2]. Group 1: Development Zones' Role - Development zones are essential for urban modernization, acting as strong engines for economic growth, new carriers for urban space expansion, stages for urban function upgrades, and experimental fields for institutional innovation [1][2]. - The Yangtze River Delta region has 140 national-level development zones and 460 provincial-level or above development zones, showcasing their importance in urban development [1]. - Jiangsu province has the highest number of national-level economic and technological development zones in the top 30 rankings, with Suzhou being the city with the most zones listed [1]. Group 2: Inter-Zonal Relationships - The rapid development of various levels of development zones reflects the leadership of the Communist Party of China and the advantages of the socialist system in urban modernization [2]. - The inter-zonal relationships among development zones manifest as competition, complementarity, cooperation, and cross-radiation, enhancing regional economic development and public service investment [2]. - The integration of urban clusters and metropolitan areas is increasingly driven by development zones, particularly in major economic regions like the Yangtze River Delta, Pearl River Delta, and Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei [2]. Group 3: Future Directions - Development zones are tasked with pioneering roles in the modernization of cities, with a focus on achieving coordinated, linked, and integrated development [3]. - The emphasis is on utilizing systematic thinking to explore effective paths for high-quality governance, technological innovation, and improved living standards [3]. - The ongoing interaction between theoretical and practical innovations is crucial for stimulating new momentum in urban modernization [3].