Shandong is poised to embrace the world with greater openness, creating new frontiers for marine cooperation. [Photo/Haibao News]

East China's Shandong province is at the forefront of global maritime cooperation, building a marine community with a shared future. This vision is driving innovative practices and partnerships that enhance ocean governance, blue economy development, and marine conservation worldwide.

In June, the Ocean Platform secretariat for the United Nations (UN) Ocean Decade was established in Qingdao West Coast New Area. It aims to foster global cooperation among coastal cities to advance marine protection, blue economic growth, and ocean governance.

Qingdao has become an important part of China's involvement in the UN Ocean Decade. In 2023, the Ocean Decade International Cooperation Center was set up in Qingdao, leading to the release of the Qingdao Declaration and other significant marine initiatives. These efforts have significantly boosted global capabilities in climate change response and marine disaster prevention.

Shandong is enhancing its marine platforms, with seven international marine organizations, including the Ocean Decade International Cooperation Center, now based in Qingdao. These platforms support high-level marine cooperation and development forums, making the city a vital window for global marine collaboration.

The Haixiwan Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Industrial Base in Qingdao showcases robust industrial chain development, contributing to a vibrant maritime ecosystem. This location, at the heart of the Sino-Japanese-South Korean shipbuilding Golden Triangle, offers unparalleled geographical and logistical advantages, with over 200 shipping routes connecting to global destinations.

Shandong's ports boast over 360 routes connecting to more than 700 ports worldwide, serving as strategic gateways for trade and economic development. In 2024, Shandong added 10 new international sister ports, bringing the total to 54.

From Sept 7 to 9, the Global Ocean Development Forum will be held in Qingdao, bringing together nearly 700 attendees from over 60 countries and regions to discuss the future of oceans. Shandong is poised to embrace the world with greater openness, creating new frontiers for marine cooperation.