Q: In the 1980s, China put forward the three-step
development strategy of the country's modernization drive. What is
the aim of each step? After the strategy is realized, how will
China have changed?
A: China put forward the three-step development strategy
according to its national conditions and after careful analysis of
all kinds of factors at home and abroad.
Step One: In the 10 years from 1981 to 1990, per capita gross
domestic product (GDP) should be doubled from US$250 in 1980 to
US$500, providing basic food and clothing for its people.
Step Two: Per capita GDP should be doubled again from 1991 to
2000 to reach US$1,000, an indication that China would have entered
a fairly well-off society. Though per capita GDP would still remain
at a low level, the country's comprehensive national strength would
be greatly enhanced with total GNP exceeding one trillion US
dollars.
Step Three: By the middle of the 21st Century, per capita GNP will
reach US$4,000 and China's level of development is expected to be
on par with the mid-ranking developed countries. At that time,
China will have basically realized modernization.
In 1987, China achieved the first aim three years in advance. In
1995, it realized the second aim five years in advance. Then, China
put forward a new three-step development strategy for the 2001-
2050 period.
According to the new three-step development strategy, there are
three development phases:
Step One: Continuing to maintain the rapid, healthy and
sustained growth of the national economy. Per capita GDP will be
doubled on the basis of 2000, and the life of the Chinese people
becomes more comfortable. In particular, all rural areas in the
country will enter a well-off society.
Step Two: By 2020, the rural population lives a prosperous life
with the development of industrialization and urbanization, while
the urban population gets even richer.
Step Three: From 2020 to 2050, per capita GDP will largely reach
US$4,000. China will then become a richer, more democratic and
modernized socialist country.
The three-step development strategy is our ambition. Although the
goal is not very high, it is fairly difficult to realize.