Shanghai needs and desires high quality international workers "more than ever" as it works to become a global city of excellence, Shanghai Mayor Ying Yong said in a forum discussing the city's master plan for the next two decades.

Ying's comment came during the 29th International Business Leaders' Advisory Council for the Mayor of Shanghai on Sunday.

The city will continue to pursue its 2040 goals in accordance with the State deployment by enhancing its attractiveness, creativity and competitiveness.