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Rural resident extols benefits of urbanization

Updated: Mar 1,2015 4:14 PM     english.gov.cn

Premier Li Keqiang talks with rural residents about settling into an urban environment during an inspection stop in Shandong in July. [Photo/chinanews.com]

SPECIAL COVERAGE: TALKING TO PEOPLE THE PREMIER VISITED IN 2014

More than 1,400 rural residents of Yuanqiao township in Dezhou city, Shandong province became citizens of a new local community in 2010, capturing the public’s attention and in the process the area became Premier Li Keqiang’s first inspection stop in Shandong in July last year.

“I just said what I felt,” said Wang Fengyuan, 72, as he recalled the day the Premier sat in a summerhouse and talked with people like a neighbor.

The Premier listed the advantages of living in a town. “Many of my relatives and friends saw the pictures of Premier Li chatting with me. I feel lucky and happy,” Wang said.

Wang used to be a teacher in neighboring rural areas and after retirement moved to his current home with his children who were migrant workers. Around 70 percent of local residents share a similar background to him.

The reason Li chose the place as his first stop was to see “new urbanization” in action and discover whether people truly receive benefits.

The Premier pointed out at his first press conference after taking office that China’s large-scale urbanization can influence the country’s development as well as the world. He also attached great importance to people – saying they should be put first.

After Li’s inspection last year, there is improvement in the urbanization of Yuanqiao township. Wang told chinanews.com that he hoped Li could come again so that he can tell of the improvements in his life. More rural residents have access to power, gas and heating and many farmers have had computers and cars, Wang said.

Premier Li Keqiang talks with rural residents about settling into an urban environment during an inspection stop in Shandong in July. [Photo/chinanews.com]

Police officer Zhang Hui explains details of registered permanent residence to a citizen. [Photo/chinanews.com]