The State Council has approved a development plan for the Harbin-Changchun megalopolis that includes major cities in Northeast China’s Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces.

The State Council urged local governments to take advantage of the Belt and Road Initiative and revitalization of old industrial bases in a bid to transform development models and improve urban governance.

In particular, the central government called for scientific planning of urban space, infrastructural interconnectivity, coordinated industrial development and shared public services.

According to the plan, the Harbin-Changchun megalopolis is expected to grow into a green region of influence and competitiveness with improved urban environment and quality of life.

Governments of Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces should coordinate and cooperate in the implementation of the plan, the State Council said.