Chinese President Xi Jinping encouraged the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in South China's Guangdong Province to push forward with modernization of its governance system and capacity when he spoke on Wednesday at a celebration marking 40 years of China's first SEZ.

He said that Shenzhen has faced many challenges after 40 years of development and the city should establish life-cycle management awareness and explore a new governance pattern that fits the megacity's characteristics and development law.

He emphasized the strengthening of governance ruled by law in tackling the city's problems.

Xi also encouraged Shenzhen to take advantage of its advanced informational industry to make the city more smart and intelligent.