Backed by the Yangtze River and facing the Pacific Ocean, Shanghai stands at the forefront of China's reform and opening up. In 2024, the city's GDP exceeded 5.39 trillion yuan (approximately $738 billion), marking a major milestone in urban economic development. As a global hub, its connectivity and functions – especially as a shipping center – are expanding. The city is fast-tracking its transformation into a modern socialist metropolis with global influence, continuing to lead on China's path to modernization.