China's capital Beijing is glowing on the global stage, retaining its crown as the world's top science city in the latest Nature Index rankings released on Thursday. 
Not only did Beijing hold strong, but Shanghai stepped up its game, overtaking New York to seize the second spot! 
Talk about leveling up!
Here's the real plot twist: Half of the top 20 science cities are now in China. 
Cities that once flew under the radar are now rubbing shoulders with the big leagues in Europe and North America.
Simon Baker, chief editor of Nature Index, spilled the tea on this shift: \"These cities are rising stars thanks to a mix of scientific innovation, savvy economic policies, and strategic planning.\" 
As China amps up its innovation game, many of these buzzing cities are diving into tech hotspots like electric vehicles and solar energy. 
Their goals vibe perfectly with national strategies like 'Made in China 2025,' pushing the country towards high-tech industries and economic self-sufficiency.
Reference(s):
Beijing leads, provincial capitals rise in global science cities index
cgtn.com
