China is currently undergoing the largest new-type urbanization process in human history. In this new round of urban construction and development, a major challenge is how to implement the new development philosophy, create a new development pattern, and improve the systems and mechanisms necessary to advance new-type urbanization, making the shift from “high-speed” to “high-quality” urbanization. This is one of the most important issues we face today.

Recently, Professor Shi Qian, Secretary of the CPC Committee of Tongji SEM and Deputy Director of the National Comprehensive Base for Intelligent Social Governance Experiment (Yangpu, Shanghai), along with Assistant Professor Xiao Chao, from Tongji SEM, published an article in Shanghai Observer that explores two critical questions: “What kind of cities should we build?” and “How should we build them?” Their article provides a thorough analysis of the path to high-quality urban development. The published original text is as follows.

01 What kind of cities should we build?

The concept of “people’s cities should be built by the people and for the people” provides a clear answer to the questions of “for whom” and “by whom” urban development should be pursued. On this basis, in order to improve the urban planning systems, achieve high-quality urban development, and bring into play cities’ role in promoting Chinese modernization, it is essential to address critical issues related to the innovation of urban construction systems and mechanisms, especially regarding the questions: “What kind of cities should we build?” and “How should we build them?”

Firstly, China’s huge population is a fundamental aspect of the country’s modernization, and urban areas are the central elements of the country’s evolving social structure in the new era. Secondly, achieving prosperity for all is an essential requirement of Chinese modernization. Cities, as hubs for the concentration and diffusion of productive resources, are key drivers of this shared prosperity. Thirdly, the harmonious coordination of material and spiritual civilization is a lofty pursuit of Chinese modernization and an important goal of urban construction and development. Fourthly, the harmonious coexistence between human and nature is a distinct characteristic of Chinese modernization. Building green, livable cities remains an ongoing priority. Chinese modernization not only pursues economic prosperity and social progress but also focuses on eco-environment protection and sustainable development. Fifthly, peaceful development is a defining feature of Chinese modernization, and peace, development, cooperation, and win-win results are important manifestations of urban modernization.

02 How should we build cities?

Urbanization and modernization are closely intertwined. As cities develop, they simultaneously serve as crucial pillars and carriers of the country’s modernization. Therefore, exploring the question of “how should we build cities?” is crucial for understanding both the practical aspects of urban construction and the broader principles of Chinese modernization. To achieve high-quality urban development in the new era, cities should be built around several core values, such as livability, resilience, intelligence, innovation, sustainability, and cultural richness. The goal is to foster a coordinated development among large, medium, and small cities and towns, creating a balanced urban-rural integration that contributes to the broader goals of Chinese modernization.

Firstly, focus on social welfare: Prioritize the development of urban infrastructure and public services, addressing the needs of the people and improving quality of life; Secondly, balance rural and urban development: Reduce the disparities between urban and rural areas, promoting a coordinated development of large, medium, and small cities and towns; Thirdly, leverage three major forces: Integrate reform, technology, and culture to enhance urban innovation and cultural soft power; Fourthly, promote green development: Implement environmentally sustainable practices to alleviate urban ecological stress and improve the urban living and ecological environment; Fifthly, engage in global governance: Actively participate in global city networks, and contribute to shaping a new form of human civilization.