With its geographical advantages, the eastern coastal province of Zhejiang is leading the country's efforts to develop a prosperous national maritime economy.

The province boasts a coastline of 6,696 kilometers and more than 2,000 islands in its waters, which lay a solid foundation for its aspirations of becoming a world-class port region.

The State Council established the country's first demonstration zone for the development of the maritime economy in Zhejiang in 2011, placing the province in the fast lane of its national maritime strategy.

Since then, Zhejiang has given priority to developing its maritime economy and released a slew of policies and other measures to take advantage of and protect its coastal resources.

In 2017, Zhejiang reached an agreement with the State Oceanic Administration to jointly build a research institute for ocean sciences. The two partners will conduct research and provide practical experience.

Wang Hong, head of the SOA, said Zhejiang could provide a "sound foundation" for its maritime industries based on its ample resources.

Zhejiang Ocean University in Zhoushan Islands New Area, the first new area dedicated to the maritime economy, provides intellectual and technological support. 

Yan Xiaojun, president of the university, said focusing on education and research could lead to innovations in the maritime industry.