A symposium on maritime industry-university-research development strategy has been conducted in Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone (PCPZ), Fujian province on Dec 19.

Postgraduates from the Shanghai Maritime University and professionals of marine affairs, shipping and logistics had participated in it. They brainstormed about the development of maritime industries and free trade zone construction.

Xu Weize, director of PCPZ's administrative committee briefed the participants about the zone's opening up and development at the symposium. Xu said that the conference will help promote Pingtan's cooperation with the Shanghai Maritime University, the New Silk Road Co and the Zhonggang Logistic Group, which were also organizers of the event.

Xu added that Pingtan now enjoyed advantages of preferential policies, well-developed infrastructure, a geographic location close to Taiwan and industrial innovation. He said that he expected more professionals and entrepreneurs to come to start or expand businesses in the zone and help it develop better.

Huang Youfang, president of the Shanghai Maritime University vowed a strong support for Pingtan's research on Belt and Road Initiative, and talent training. He felt that the area has great potential in maritime industries.

To take advantage of the zone's favorable location as a core area of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, the three organizers signed a cooperation agreement at the symposium and announced the establishment of a maritime industry-university-research base in Pingtan.

Ni Jianye, general manager of New Silk Road Co said that this cooperation will help advance Pingtan's economy and enhance its global influence.