Thursday, September 14, 2000, updated at 23:53(GMT+8)
China
Vice-Premier Speaks on Development of China's Western Areas
Development of China's western region is an arduous "historic task" that requires hard efforts for many years, Vice-Premier Wen Jiabao said Thursday.
Wen made these remarks to the nation's provincial leaders attending a seminar here on the strategy for development of western areas.
"We must make overall plans and adhere to scientific and economic laws in carrying out the strategy, while stepping up reforms for realizing sustained and balanced development in economic, cultural and ecological fields," he noted.
The vice-premier, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, urged the provincial leaders to contribute their wisdom and strength to the project.