With the arrival of the New Century, the Chinese people have entered a new epoch with pride. To implement the great strategy of developing the West China is an important strategic decision for our cross-century development made by the Central Government. This is as President Jiang Zemin pointed out; "To implement the great strategy of developing West China is a decisive strategy and great thought for developing the whole nation." The great development of West China will be a great drive to realize our third strategic plan and rejuvenate the civilizations of China.

West China includes Shaanxi Province, Gansu Province, Qinghai Province, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sichuan Province, Chongqing Municipality, Yunnan Province, Guizhou Province, and Tibet Autonomous Region. It has 5.4 million sq. km of area, which makes up 56% of the total area of the country. Its population is 0.285 billion, making up 23% of the total of China. It is rich in natural resources, with 120 kinds out of the proven 140 kinds in China.

Reserves of some rare metals top the nation and even the world. This area boasts unique energy and tourist resources. The Changjiang (Yangtze) River and the Huanghe (Yellow) River are both originated from this area. Seven out of the nation's planned top 10 hydroelectric bases are distributed in this area. The development prospect of West China is bright. To carry out the great strategy of developing this area is of great strategic significance in accelerating the balanced growth of the nation's regional economy, reconstructing the great civilization of China, promoting the unity of the Chinese nation and maintaining the long-term social stability.