He said China made unprecedented social transformation, especially since adopting reform and opening up in 1978.
“China’s industrial structure was upgraded, its agricultural foundation was consolidated and regional development became much more balanced,” said Mr Lin.
“All-round progress was made in social programmes and people’s lives significantly improved. We have withstood the test of many disasters, difficulties and risks.
“In the last five years, we effectively tackled the huge impact of the international financial crisis and sustained steady and fast economic growth.”
Mr Lin said despite the achievements, the Chinese were clear that their country was still a developing country, with a large population and yet a weak economic base.
“It has to feed close to 20 percent of the world’s population with only nine percent of the world’s arable land and 6,5 percent of the world’s fresh water,” he said.
“Unbalanced development still exists between urban and rural areas and among different regions. There are 128 million Chinese people still living under poverty datum line.
“We still have a long way to go,” he said.



