SHANGHAI, Dec. 25 (Xinhua) -- Shanghai will strictly control the size of its population and the amount of construction land, according to a directive on a general plan for the city's development between 2017 and 2035.

As of 2035, the number of permanent residents in Shanghai will be capped around 25 million and its total construction land by the time will be no more than 3,200 square kilometers, according to the directive published by the State Council on Monday.

The city will utilize land economically, strictly control new construction land and reasonably exploit underground space.

It should increase efficiency of land use while protecting farmland.

The directive also requires the city to intensify efforts in protection of environment and its historic sites, including the building where the Communist Party of China held its first national congress.

In general, the city aims to become an "excellent global city," said the directive.