Call to Take Development to a Practical New Height: Premier Li Qiang’s Clear Message During Shandong Visit

Beijing – Chinese Premier Li Qiang has emphasized the need to make development more solid, effective, and people-centered, while further improving living standards and strengthening economic momentum. He made the remarks on Monday during an inspection tour of east China’s Shandong Province.

Premier Li, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, stated that smart manufacturing is the core foundation for technological transformation and industrial upgrading. He stressed the importance of actively applying artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to comprehensively reshape the entire production and manufacturing chain throughout its full lifecycle.

Calling for accelerated research, development, and application of green and low-carbon technologies, Premier Li also highlighted the need to convert industrial waste heat into a stable and clean source of thermal energy.

During the visit, Premier Li was briefed on the progress of energy infrastructure and nuclear power projects in Shandong. He underscored the importance of coordinating the construction and safe operation of clean energy projects, enhancing technological capacity and regulatory oversight, and strengthening support for the development of a modern energy system.

On the same tour, Premier Li chaired a symposium to solicit opinions and suggestions on the draft annual government work report, the draft outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan for economic and social development, and the overall work of the government.

Premier Li noted that governments at all levels should make full use of their local comparative advantages and actively cultivate new drivers of economic growth. In conjunction with the formulation and implementation of the 15th Five-Year Plan, he said, clear plans should be developed for a series of major initiatives and strategic projects to achieve substantial progress in priority areas.

He delivered a clear message that priority should be given to developing new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions, strengthening the domestic economic cycle, expanding employment opportunities, and promoting income growth for residents.