"Possessing the advantages of its openness and having a strong commercial background, Jinan has huge potential for the future," said Li Jingquan. As the provincial capital, Jinan has superior geographical advantages, a sound industrial foundation and outstanding innovative resources. The city also has core infrastructure facilities, as well as development opportunities brought by the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Japan-ROK free trade area and Shandong province's preparation for the third batch of free trade zones.