Xi Jinping emphasizes people-centered urban development in China

Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized a people-centered philosophy for urban development, advocating for cities to be built ‘by the people and for the people.’ This approach focuses on urban renewal initiatives that prioritize understanding public needs, soliciting suggestions, and assessing the effectiveness of improvements to enhance citizens' sense of security and happiness.

Key aspects of this governance strategy include shantytown renovation, waste sorting, and the development of green, low-carbon, and smart infrastructure. Xi has noted that urban development should avoid extreme disparities, stating, ‘we cannot have cities with skyscrapers on the one side and slums on the other.’ The strategy aims to create livable, resilient, and efficient cities that offer lessons and opportunities for cooperation with developing countries.