Large-scale development of western China was a strategic decision by the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the State Council in implementing Deng Xiaoping's instructions on an issue of overriding importance: the development of both coastal and inland areas.

On Jan. 16, 2000, China's State Council established a leading group for the large-scale development of its western regions, outlining specific development priorities for 19 central government bodies.

The strategy covers 71.4% of China's land territory including six provinces, five autonomous regions and one municipality. Development was to be supported by infrastructure projects, while environmental protection was made a priority.

Overall development can be divided into three phases: laying the foundations from 2001 to 2010; accelerating development from 2011 to 2030; and modernization on all fronts from 2031 to 2050.

The goal is to achieve common prosperity for people of all ethnic groups.

The strategy to develop western China and the determination to fuel the growth of central and western regions are significant for expanding internal demand, promoting sustainable growth, coordinating regional development for common prosperity, increasing ethnic and social stability, and consolidating the frontier areas.

China decided to implement the strategy in September 1999, when the fourth plenary session of the 15th CPC Central Committee agreed a strategy for large-scale development of western China.