China is preparing the next phase of the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta region - a new development plan mapped out to build the area into an economic powerhouse that will add to the country's high-quality development.

The new plan, released on Sunday by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, aims to create a strong and active economic growth nucleus and a gateway for further opening up the economy.

Experts said the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta region, a national strategy for economic momentum, is expected to create a world-class city cluster to fuel the growth of the entire nation, foster new economic drivers for the country and point the way for other countries to explore regional integration and urbanization.

Under the new plan, substantial progress will be made in boosting the integrated development of the delta region by 2025, including fostering a number of world-class industrial clusters and becoming a key national innovation hub. By 2035, the area would become the most influential and dynamic growth pole of the economy.

The delta region encompasses Shanghai and the provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui, covering around 358,000 square kilometers and generating about one-quarter of the country's GDP.

"As one of the most open, innovative and economically vibrant regions in China, the Yangtze River Delta region has become a key driving force for rapid economic growth, greater national strength and international influence," said Wu Xiaohua, vice-president of the Academy of Macroeconomic Research of the National Development and Reform Commission. "It is also one of the six major world-class city clusters."