City to play 'pivotal' role in region's growth

The State Council's decision to designate the development plan for the coastal area of Liaoning as a State-level strategy is set to have a profound impact on the economic development of Northeast Asia, a high ranking official in Dalian said.

Dai Yulin, vice-mayor of the city, said the approval of the plan means a "historical opportunity" for the coastal city, which boasts the best port resources in the region.

The plan is a major coup for Liaoning, one of the three old industrial centers in northeast China.