An aerial view of urban Changzhi in North China's Shanxi province [Photo/Shanxi Daily]

The city of Changzhi in North China's Shanxi province was recently included on a list of national innovative cities released by the Ministry of Science and Technology.

An "innovative city" is a city that relies on technology, knowledge, talent, systems, and culture to drive development.

The Ministry of Science and Technology requires the selected cities to focus on implementing the innovation-driven development strategy and key tasks of the construction plan, continue to deepen system reforms, optimize the innovation and entrepreneurship environment, create a talent hub, and expand opening-up and cooperation.

It also requires the enhancement of independent innovation capabilities, the provision of high-quality technology, the practical application of scientific and technological achievements, and the expansion of new industries, businesses and models.

In the future, Changzhi will further strengthen its top-level design and layout and focus on the upgrading of advantageous traditional industries, the strengthening of strategic emerging industries, the raising of scientific and technological service capabilities, and the innovation of culture.