The Xizang Autonomous Region in southwest China, known for its vast landscape and harsh natural conditions, has faced challenges in economic development. However, the ambitious "Aid-Xizang" program has driven significant transformation over the past decades. A conference held on Tuesday outlined the blueprint for the region's future growth. CGTN's Yang Jinghao reports.
This exhibition showcases the remarkable progress southwest China's Xizang has made over the past 30 years.
These achievements are largely attributed to the "Aid-Xizang" initiative, launched in 1994, which pairs economically developed provinces with this high-altitude region, for targeted support.
YANG JINGHAO Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region "Over the past 30 years, 17 provinces and municipalities have invested over 64 billion yuan, approximately 9 billion US dollars, in around 8,200 projects aimed at supporting Xizang's development."
On Tuesday, a meeting in Lhasa, the capital of Xizang, brought together program participants and local officials to share insights into the region's progress and plan future development.
Some individuals who have made contributions to Xizang's transformation were honored during the event.
MA QIHUA Member of Eighth Aid-Xizang Work Team from Zhejiang Province "First, I am delighted to return to Lhasa and witness the remarkable progress across various sectors in Xizang over the past 30 years under the aid program. As one who once worked in the region, I am proud to have played a small part in Xizang's development. The honor bestowed upon us by the country leaves me deeply moved and profoundly grateful."
Among the many projects supporting livelihoods, education, healthcare, and industrial development, a standout is this agricultural complex in Lhasa.
Supported by both the central government and east China's Jiangsu Province, the agricultural demonstration park integrates modern farming with tourism and science education – becoming a popular attraction in the city.
YANG JINGHAO Lhasa, Xizang Autonomous Region "Traditionally, only a few crops – mainly highland barley and wheat – could be cultivated in Xizang. But now, thanks to technologies, a variety of fruits and vegetables can thrive in this high-altitude region."
PHURBU TENZIN Employee, Qushui Caina National Modern Agriculture Demonstration Zone "In the beginning, this area was just a 60-plus-mu plot of land for growing peaches. With the investment from the Aid-Xizang program, we established the necessary infrastructure and greenhouses. Local villagers have not only learned advanced farming techniques but also gained employment. This has broadened their horizons and transformed their way of thinking."
As the country moves forward with high-quality development, the cadres say it's crucial to shift from what's been called "blood transfusion" assistance mode to fostering self-sustainability in Xizang.
WANG YUNQING Deputy Secretary of the Shannan Municipal Committee, Leader of the 10th Aid-Xizang Work Team from Hubei Province "We have transitioned from unilateral efforts to joint development with the local community. Our goal is to deeply integrate industrial development with technological innovation, using technology to further advance Xizang's development and encourage the establishment of enterprises and industries with advanced productive capabilities."
Wang highlights that a company specializing in drones suited for plateau environments will soon be introduced. It's expected to boost Xizang's low-altitude economy.
Yang Jinghao, CGTN, Xizang Autonomous Region.