China Unveils 15 Measures to Boost Development in Western Provinces
Jan 5 (Reuters) – China announced on Sunday a comprehensive plan to accelerate the development of its western provinces through the implementation of 15 key measures aimed at enhancing logistical infrastructure.
The General Administration of Customs revealed that these measures would focus on improving the integration of various transportation modes, including rail, air, river, and sea links in China’s western regions.
Among the initiatives is the enhancement of international aviation hubs in cities like Chengdu, Chongqing, Kunming, Xi’an, and Urumqi. Additionally, the plan includes the development of comprehensive bonded zones that will be integrated with ports and other transport networks.
Furthermore, the construction and expansion of several ports are also part of the strategy to boost economic growth in China’s western areas.
Despite efforts to bolster the economic strength of the western provinces, challenges persist, including ethnic tensions in regions like Xinjiang and stringent security measures imposed by Beijing to safeguard national unity and border stability.
China’s western regions, encompassing approximately two-thirds of the country’s land area, include provinces such as Sichuan, Chongqing, Yunnan, Xinjiang, and Tibet.
Revitalizing Rural Areas and Strengthening Resources
China’s Politburo has emphasized the need for a “new urbanization” in western China to revitalize rural communities, enhance poverty alleviation efforts, and strengthen energy resources.
Moreover, initiatives have been undertaken to enhance connectivity with Europe and South Asia through trade corridors, including the development of rail freight routes.
As China continues to prioritize the development of its western provinces, these measures are expected to play a crucial role in accelerating economic growth and fostering regional integration.
(Reporting by Hong Kong and Beijing newsrooms; Editing by William Mallard)
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