Zhanjiang Mayor Wang Zhongbing and deputy directors of the State Oceanic Administration (SOA) took part in a brainstorming activity on marine economic development on Oct 10.

Zhanjiang Mayor Wang Zhongbing (L) and SOA Deputy Director Fang Jianmeng discuss marine economic development. [Photo by Lu Zhimin/Zhanjiang.com.cn]

Wang and his delegation held in-depth discussions with Fang Jianmeng and Lin Shanqing, deputy directors of the SOA on topics including the preparatory work of the 2016 China Marine Economy Expo (CMEE) and cooperation on ports and shipping within the scope of the Qiongzhou Strait area.

Wang reported to the SOA leaders the status quo of Zhanjiang's marine economic development and their preparatory work for the CMEE. They also expressed gratitude for SOA's long-term support.

CMEE is the only national-level marine economic and trade exhibition. It showcases the latest marine developments regarding the economy, technology, environmental protection and more.

This year's CMEE will be held in Zhanjiang and will put the city under the global spotlight. Zhanjiang is stepping up efforts to build a marine city by strengthening its port construction and ocean industry, Wang said.

The coastal city boasts abundant marine resources and aquatic products, and has huge potential to develop its marine economy with the aid of advanced maritime science and technology.

The SOA prioritizes the development of the marine economy and Zhanjiang can be the "spearhead", Lin said.