China's poverty relief efforts set example for world

As the largest contributor to global poverty reduction, China has set an exemplary example for the world with its achievements, strong determination and effective measures.

Since the reform and opening up drive began in 1978, poverty relief work has resulted in more than 700 million Chinese being lifted out of poverty.

This achievement translates into more than 70 percent of the global poverty reduction success. China became the first developing country to meet the UN Millennium Development Goal of reducing the population of those living in poverty by half before 2015.

However, this is by no means an excuse to stop. The government has named poverty reduction as one of its top priorities for the next five years.

To complete the goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, no single area or citizen can be left behind.

That is why the government said bringing more than 70 million people above the poverty line is the "bottom line target" for the government work before 2020, along with other goals including maintaining medium-high growth.

In reality, a steadily growing economy played its part in reducing poverty, with economy expanding by an annual rate of more than 9 percent since 1978. A medium-high level of growth in the 2016-2020 period will continue to serve that end.

• China's achievement so far comes also from effective measures that not only raise people's living standards but also eliminates the root causes of poverty.

There is now a database that has details on each of the 70 million rural residents living under the poverty line. This archive will help to tailor measures to suit the individual's location, education and social needs.

During the Central Economic Work Conference, which ended Monday, the government reiterated its commitment to poverty alleviation with promises of financial and policy support.

Over the next five years, 600 billion yuan (about 93 billion US dollars) will be allocated to supporting the relocation of about 10 million people living in poverty.

Improving education in impoverished areas is a fundamental part of poverty relief, and the government has vowed to continue to support education in poor areas.

Based on the economic and cultural realities of different regions, the government has called on companies, individuals and organizations to also play their part. Rich provinces will also assist one or more less-developed provinces.

This last final push will be more difficult than previous efforts. Thus, to meet the target, China not only needs resolution and targeted measures, but also earnest implementation by governments at all levels.

China should continue to show the world what it takes to accomplish a mission that seems to be impossible.
  Xinhua - globaltimes.cn
25/12/15
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