Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the regional disparities within Anhui province, highlighting the "scattered" nature of its cities and the lack of cohesion between the provincial capital, Hefei, and other cities like Wuhu, Ma'anshan, and Chuzhou, which tend to identify more with neighboring Nanjing than with their own provincial capital [1][10][20]. Group 1: Regional Dynamics - The recent Suzhou Super League match showcased the support from cities like Wuhu and Ma'anshan for Nanjing, while Hefei remained isolated, indicating a lack of unity within Anhui [2][4]. - Geographical proximity plays a significant role, with cities in southeastern Anhui being closer to Nanjing than to Hefei, leading to stronger economic and emotional ties with Nanjing [5][9]. - The historical context of Hefei's designation as the provincial capital has not fostered a strong identity or loyalty among other cities, leading to a perception of Hefei as a distant "big brother" [10][14]. Group 2: Economic Disparities - Hefei's GDP accounts for nearly 27% of the province's total, but the economic development is uneven, with cities like Wuhu and Chuzhou lagging significantly behind [19][21]. - The "strong provincial capital" strategy has led to complaints from other cities, which feel neglected and view Hefei as a "battery charger" that does not adequately support their growth [12][17]. - The economic gap is evident, with Wuhu's GDP being only 38% of Hefei's, highlighting the disparity in resource allocation and development opportunities [26][20]. Group 3: Cross-Provincial Strategies - In response to internal challenges, cities in Anhui are increasingly seeking to integrate into neighboring metropolitan areas, with several cities successfully joining urban circles in Jiangsu and Zhejiang [28][29]. - The push for cross-provincial integration aims to leverage resources and infrastructure improvements, enhancing connectivity and economic collaboration with more developed regions [32][33]. - While this strategy may provide short-term benefits, it also risks further fragmenting Anhui's identity and cohesion as a province, as cities align more closely with external regions rather than with Hefei [33].