Addressing uneven development through state-steered intercity cooperation? Insights from Shenzhen–Ganzhou cooperation plan-making
研究中国国家引导的“结对合作”项目，通过分析深圳与赣州的合作规划过程，揭示国家角色和落后城市主动策略如何促成发达城市承诺，使合作满足双方需求。
Attention being paid to the implications of intercity networks on uneven development is increasing. To inform the discussion, this study examines China’s state-steered matching programme that is characterised by ‘forming city networks under hierarchy’. By investigating the interactive dynamics of the plan-making process and the nature of the collaboration plan generated under the particular institutional arrangement, we argue that the presence of the nation-state and the ‘left-behind’ city’s proactive strategies are important to ensure commitment from the developed city and thus make the cooperation plan fulfil both parties’ needs. We conclude by discussing the potential mechanisms and implications of the state-steered matching programme on addressing uneven development.