CLUSTER of projects have been included in a pilot program to develop the marine economy on Shandong Peninsula, which was approved by the State Council on Jan. 4.

    The projects are aimed at stepping up exploration of deep ocean resources, building world-class ocean biological research and development and industrial centers, industrial bases for modern ocean fishing, ocean equipment manufacturing, and aquatic farming.

    Commercial ocean banks will be planned to give more support to the development of the marine economy.

    In addition, the Oceanic University of China will be developed into a world-class comprehensive oceanic university while vocational education bases for the marine industry will be established in the seven cities in Shandong Province including Qingdao.

    The city will step up efforts to attract professionals in the marine industry to form a cluster of marine professionals in northeast Asia.

    Activities such as the China International Ocean Festival, international expositions and forums on ocean economy and culture are expected to be held on a regular basis.

    The city government will support foreign shipping using the bonded port area in Qingdao.

    (Li Hao, Liu Fangbing)