Ecological Conservation and High-quality Development of the Yellow River Basin

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for concerted efforts to promote ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River while chairing a symposium during his inspection tour to Henan province on September 18, 2019.

"The protection of the Yellow River is critical to the great rejuvenation and sustainable development of the Chinese nation," said Xi, adding that it is a major national strategy.

Brief introduction

Originating in Qinghai province, the Yellow River, known as China's "Mother River" and the cradle of the Chinese civilization, runs through nine provinces and autonomous regions including Shaanxi and Henan before emptying into the Bohai Sea in East China's Shandong province. It is the second longest river in China after the Yangtze River.

The 5,464-km-long waterway feeds about 12 percent of China's population, irrigates about 15 percent of its arable land, supports 14 percent of the national GDP, and supplies water to more than 60 cities. As of the end of 2018, the population of the region totaled 420 million, accounting for over 30 percent of the country's total, and the regional GDP reached 23.9 trillion yuan, or 26.5 percent of the total.

Significance

The Yellow River Basin holds a vital position in China's economic and social development and ecological security because it is an important ecological hub and a significant economic zone; it is a key area to win the battle against poverty. Protecting the Yellow River is a grand plan for the great rejuvenation and sustainable development of the Chinese nation.

The protection strategy is of great significance in strengthening the management of the Yellow River, promoting high-quality development of its basin, actively supporting the provinces and autonomous regions in the river basin to win the fight against poverty, and addressing public concerns about flood control, drinking water and ecological safety. It contributes to social stability and national unity.

Measures

First, strengthen conservation of ecosystem.

Second, ensure the long-term security of the Yellow River.

Third, promote the intensive use of water resources.

Fourth, promote high-quality development in the Yellow River Basin.

Fifth, protect, inherit and promote the Yellow River culture.