NANNING, June 6 (Xinhua) -- A high-profile seminar on the development of the Beibu Gulf Economic Zone in southwest China was opened in Beihai City in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Monday.

Jia Qinglin, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top advisory body, met with delegates to the seminar before its opening.

To develop Beibu Gulf Economic Zone, innovation, scientific approach and regional cooperation are the three main themes, said Wang Zhongyu, vice-chairman of the CPPCC's National Committee.

"We should take advantage of the strength of political consultative conferences in making scientific development plan of the economic zone," Wang said.

Jia said in an earlier occasion that accelerating the development of the Beibu Gulf Economic Zone is significant for Guangxi's economic and social development, the country's security and the stability of the surrounding area.

"The integrated development of the zone requires improved infrastructure and a brand new logistics system to get the best out of the Beibu Gulf's advantages," Jia said.

Jia called for the building of a "green economic zone" in Beibu Gulf by enhancing environmental protection, energy-saving and being frugal on land utilization.

During its annual session, the CPPCC has decided to hold special consultations on how to accelerate the development of the Beibu Gulf Economic Zone and promote regional economic cooperation this year.

The Beibu Gulf Economic Zone covers six coastal cities along the Beibu Gulf in Guangxi. It integrates the cities of Nanning, the region's capital, Beihai, Qinzhou, Fangchenggang, Chongzuo and Yulin.