A group interview event began on Thursday in Nantong, Jiangsu province, aimed at telling stories about China's opening up to the world. Journalists will tour 14 cities, which were the first coastal cities to open up.

Among the 14 cities are Tianjin, Shanghai, Dalian of Liaoning province, Qingdao of Shandong province and Guangzhou of Guangdong province.

Over the past 40 years, these 14 cities have made significant economic progress. By the end of 2023, their combined GDP reached 20.7 trillion yuan ($2.9 trillion), making up 16.4 percent of the national GDP. Their total import and export trade volume hit 10.4 trillion yuan, around 25 percent of the national total. Actual foreign capital utilization amounted to $53.85 billion, a third of the national total, according to official data.

The journalists will explore the development of these cities over the 40 years of reform and opening up, showcasing their path to modernization. This event provides insight into China's ongoing reform efforts and the development of new productive forces.

Organized in collaboration with the National Radio and Television Administration, the event involves 14 media outlets, with Nantong being the first stop on the itinerary.

Zhu Sidi contributed to this story.