Children cheerily show off some sweet potatoes in a village in Qingdao, Shandong province. [Photo/IC]

Qingdao will implement the national rural revitalization strategy to improve the quality of life for residents living in rural areas of the city, according to an announcement made at the symposium of Shandong deputies during the annual two sessions in Beijing.

"The city needs to make systematic arrangements for its future development, aiming to make rural areas strong, beautiful and rich," said Meng Fanli, mayor of Qingdao and a deputy to the 13th National People's Congress.

To improve the capabilities of the agricultural sector, the city will give priority to scientific methods by applying new technologies in production.

Qingdao encourages industrial innovation and will improve the agricultural management system to promote the comprehensive upgrading of agriculture.

Committed to green development, the government will put an emphasis on ecological protection.

It will also take advantage of the city's rural environment to stage recreational activities for the development of cultural tourism. 

Training for lower-skilled workers will also be enhanced to help them learn skills and take home a higher salary.

"We hope Qingdao can set an example in rural construction reform for other cities in Shandong province to follow," said Meng.

Visitors enjoy gathering fruits from trees in a village in Qingdao, Shandong province. [Photo/IC]