Wu said the integrated development of the delta region marks China's latest effort to pursue balanced, high-quality development of the nation and a further step in deepening reform and opening-up.

"With the plan, the Yangtze River Delta city cluster will see significant improvement in scale and quality," Wu added. "What's more, the integrated development of the region will create new economic drivers amid the slowdown of the global economy and slower growth in world trade. With a key focus on pursuing opening-up on all fronts, it will also provide new impetus to globalization."

Wang Zhen, vice-president of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, added that the region's integrated development will generate new momentum for the economy of both China and the globe.

Compared with leading world-class city clusters, however, the region still lags behind in many fields, such as public services, living conditions and rural and urban management.

"All regions involved in the plan need to work closely together and open the door wider to gain an edge in the allocation of global resources and scientific innovation," Wang said.

Under the new plan, Shanghai can better play up its functions in international economy, finance, trade, shipping and scientific innovation, as well as forge a powerful brand in services, manufacturing, shopping and culture.

As the delta region develops, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Anhui are set to become an internationally competitive, advanced manufacturing base, a leading player in the digital economy and an important source of innovation and emerging industries, according to the plan.