Integrated development paves path toward rural vitalization

Trucks work on large-scale farms in Laiwu district, Shandong province. [Photo provided by Gao Xiang/for chinadaily.com.cn]

In Xujiahe community of Laiwu district in Jinan, capital of East China's Shandong province, the concept of integrating urban and rural development has been steadfastly upheld, leading to the emergence of a new path toward rural vitalization.

The journey began with the renovation of old villages in 2014, which resulted in the establishment of a city community centered around the Lianhe River, accommodating around 20,000 residents and sparking a remarkable transformation in the region's landscape.

Wang Zuoquan, director of the community's neighborhood committee, emphasized the importance of integrating into the broader development landscape with a forward-looking perspective. He highlighted the achievement of constructing a beautiful community and underscored their goal to enhance services to create a higher-quality, more resilient, and sustainable development model.

In 2020, construction on the Qilu Yanshan Rural Complex commenced in the area. The project consists of an ecological agricultural technology demonstration zone primarily focused on large-scale green planting as well as a modern and efficient agricultural demonstration zone centered on farming experiences and picking activities.

The community also established the Lianhe Commerce and Trade Co, engaging in food processing, sales and various product services. This company has effectively bridged the gap between primary production, processing, and sales, facilitating the comprehensive integration and development of the agricultural industrial chain.

In recent years, Xujiahe community has established a diversified and institutionalized system for talent recruitment, training, and utilization, providing a continuous source of strength for the community's sustained high-quality development. (Edited by Yang Yi)