Li Peng, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, in an inspection of some key construction projects in Beijing on September 15 praised Beijing's construction achievements and the preparations for celebrating the coming 50th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which falls on October 1.

Li visited the Millennium Altar, which is being built between the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution and China Central Television Station in western Beijing. The 4.5-hectare altar area, which is a symbol for China's 5,000 years of civilization and traditions and the spirit of unity, independence, and peace, will be completed by the end of this year.

Li was then accompanied by city leaders in a visit to the 43- kilometer canal that runs from Yuyuantan Park to Kuming Lake in the Summer Palace, which opened to small boats at the end of July.

Li said he was concerned about sewage tre atment along the river and offered advice on how to develop tourism along Beijing's canals.

Li then went to east Forth Ring Road and talked about the highway construction in the city.

Finally, Li visited some new roads like Ping'an Avenue, Naoshikou Street, and Caishikou Street, where widening has done a great deal to help relieve Beijing's traffic jam pressures. (Xinhua)