DALIAN - China has officially approved a new zone in the northeastern coastal city of Dalian to steer local development and boost cooperation with Northeast Asian countries, the local government said on Wednesday.

The Dalian Jinpu New Area aims to deepen China's opening-up and reform, help develop a coastal economic belt in Liaoning Province and enhance economic growth in the country's northeast, the statement said.

The New Area, approved by the State Council, the cabinet, will be a pilot zone for innovation, and is expected to help Dalian become an international shipping center and a global logistics hub, according to the statement.

It covers about 2,299 square km and boasts great geographical and economic advantages.