The key is always that the science attracts the science. If you want to attract scientist outside of the metropolises, then you need to create the centres of innovation there. That may mean setting up centres of excellence at locations where you'd like to set them up. I don't think that scientists are distracted by the particular location; lots of very prominent universities are in very odd places around the world. The main thing is that you need to set up a place where it's beneficial to do your science.
On April 28th, 2022. See this statement in context.