China's western region is emerging as a pivotal engine for the nation's modernization and economic growth. Recently, President Xi Jinping emphasized the region's crucial role during a symposium in Chongqing, highlighting significant strides in development, environmental protection, and infrastructure.
Over the past five years, the Chinese mainland has implemented comprehensive policies to boost the western region, resulting in remarkable achievements. Environmental initiatives have seen over 320 million mu of farmland converted back to forests and grasslands, and major rivers like the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers have achieved Class II water quality, making them safe for drinking after purification.
Infrastructure development has been a key focus, with the creation of land-sea linkages and the expansion of freight corridors connecting Chongqing with Europe. The Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region has inaugurated its first pilot free trade zone, while Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region's Beibu Gulf Port has seen substantial growth in container throughput.
Economic growth in the western region is also noteworthy. The region's GDP surged from 20.5 trillion yuan in 2019 to 26.9 trillion yuan in 2023, boasting an average annual growth rate of 4.9 percent. This growth is fueled by the establishment of nine national-level strategic new industrial clusters, including new materials and biomedicine, and five advanced manufacturing clusters in electronic information and aviation.
Looking ahead, city clusters like Chengdu and Chongqing are set to spearhead high-quality development, further solidifying the western region's role in China's overall economic landscape. These advancements not only enhance the region's strength and sustainability but also contribute significantly to the nation's long-term vision of building a modern socialist country.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
