Lhasa to restore economic vitality

Source: CCTV.com | 05-13-2008 19:23

The Tibet Autonomous Region has briefed the media in Lhasa on the situation in the capital. Vice Chairman of the region, Deng Xiaogang says that while life and production have almost returned to normal, more needs to be done to boost the economy.

Tibet Regional Vice Chairman Deng Xiaogang says direct economic losses caused by the "March Unrest" totaled about 320 million Yuan. And the negative impact may be long-lasting.

Deng Xiaogang, Vice Chairman of Tibet Autonomous Region said "I believe the influence will go on and will be more evident in the second quarter. It's my belief GDP growth rate will be slower than that of last year."

GDP growth rate in Tibet dropped by 6.6 percentage points in the first quarter compared to the same period last year. The local government has taken measures to reverse the slump. It's given all affected stores help restart business with interest-free loans, tax exemption, rent subsidies and living allowances.

Deng Xiaogang said "I'm confident that safety can be assured in Tibet. The "March Unrest" will not hinder the development and will not disturb the long-term stability in the region."

Deng says the tasks for the next stage will focus on revitalizing industrial production, encouraging investment, expanding consumption and rebuilding market confidence.

The tourism industry in Tibet has been dealt a heavy blow by the unrest. Lhasa has already reopened to domestic tourists, but there's still no exact timetable for foreigners. The local government says it's now pressing on with preparations in anticipation the day will come soon.

Editor:Xiong Qu