Zhejiang province and the Hauts-de-France region signed a strategic cooperation agreement in Lille, France on Sept 4.

Hauts-de-France, meaning "Upper France", is the northernmost region of France. The region, with its capital in Lille, came into existence on Jan 1, 2016, after regional elections in December 2015.

The region has been working to develop a relationship with Zhejiang in hopes of boosting its economy, education, health, and scientific research capabilities, among other areas, said a deputy chairman of the Hauts-de-France Regional Council.

Zhu Guoxian, head of the publicity department of Zhejiang province, said that the two sides should take this opportunity to develop projects related to tourism, ports, digital economy, and other industries.

Prior to the signing of the agreement, Hauts-de-France officials introduced the region's previous cooperation efforts with Chinese provinces and cities to representatives from Zhejiang province.