The Second Weifang Development Conference kicked off on June 23. It serves as a platform for both Weifang natives and talented individuals from a diverse range of backgrounds to discuss the city's development.

The Second Weifang Development Conference kicks off on June 23 in Weifang, Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Weifang-born tycoons, academicians, scholars, cultural celebrities, and government officials, as well as those working and investing in the city, took part in the event via online channels due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The two-day event included a series of forums, promotional business activities, and on-site tours to improve the city's business environment, increase investment, and teach people about Weifang's economic and social development.

Hui Xin'an, Party secretary of Weifang, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

"It is a great pleasure to have you all here today to talk about Weifang's past, get acquainted with the city's new image, and strive for future cooperation and development," said Hui Xin'an, Party secretary of Weifang, at the opening ceremony.

Hui detailed Weifang's economic and social development and encouraged attendees to visit the city frequently, cooperate with local enterprises, and contribute to the city's high-quality development and opening up.

A total of 57 key projects will be promoted during the event. They will cost a combined total of 44.09 billion yuan ($6.23 billion) and involve talent introduction, high-end equipment, smart manufacturing, healthcare, and modern agriculture, all of which are vital to the city's high-quality development, according to local officials.

The city's 16 districts and counties and industrial parks will also host online promotional events to attract investment and boost cooperation.