Yunnan Mapped out Economic Plan

To grasp the opportunity offered by the central government's policy to develop China's western regions, Yunnan Province has worked out a general plan for its future development.

According to Pang Xijun, director of the Provincial Planning Committee, a thorough investigation was conducted before the formulation of the plan, which was started last September.

Based on the idea of self-reliance the plan will implement the strategies that meet with specific situations in the province, said Pang.

"The plan targets making good use of our abundant natural and cultural resources to develop the environment and tourism industries," Pang said. "Another target is to turn our province into an international passageway because of our geographical advantage of bordering Viet Nam, Laos and Myanmar."

Pang noted that Yunnan is known for its various types of wild animals and plants, which account for more than 50 per cent of the country's total.

The province is also rich in minerals and hydroenergy. The inhabitants of the province include 25 minority nationalities, whose colourful and exotic cultures attract people at home and abroad.

"The province's unique resources lay a good foundation for our economic and social development," he said.

The province will also make efforts to promote science and technology, improve the level of urbanization and focus on working with Southeast Asian countries, said Pang.

However, poor infrastructure, shortage of talents and unbalanced economic structure still hinder the province's further development, according to Shao Qiwei, vice-governor of Yunnan Province.

"We attach great importance to improving our transportation," said Shao. "We plan to build one more airport although we have already had 10 now. And we expect to have highways to all major tourist spots."

Tobacco industry has been traditionally the pillar industry of the province. However, other industries with a lack of business savvy limit the balanced development of its economy.

"Through the economic restructuring set in the plan, we will achieve the aim of stabilizing pillar industry and fostering new industries," said Pang.





People's Daily Online --- http://www.peopledaily.com.cn/english/