By Patrick O'Donnell & Wu Huanshu

Ma Jiantang, vice governor of Qinghai Province, spoke about advancing Qaidam's circular economy at a press conference in Beijing on June 12.

A circular economy is one that seeks to find a balance between economic growth and protecting the environment by emphasizing energy efficiency, recycling and reducing waste.

Ma said that promotions are underway to encourage investment and tourism in the region, like the 2008 Qinghai Tourism Festival and the Qaidam Circular Economy Showcase, which will take place in the city of Golmud from June 28 to 30.

Qaidam, an arid basin in Qinghai, west China, is one of the biggest circular economy experiment zones in the country, covering an area of 256,000 square kilometers. According to the region's government, Qaidam has a rich supply of resources, including more than 50 types of minerals, including potassium, magnesium and lithium. The government also said that Qaidam, with ample sunshine, wind and large amounts of unused land, is an excellent area for circular economic development.

The basin, with its scenic landscape and distinct minority customs, has also attracted many tourists who have brought money to local people.

Ma Jiantang said Qaidam is now at a critical juncture in the development of its economy. The region would like to emphasize investment in infrastructure and technology, which would help supplement existing governmental development programs.

The Qaidam government has confirmed that 108 investment projects involving the circular economy will be on display for visitors during the events in Golmud.

"We want to build a good circular economic zone to help set a model for other cities," Ma Jiantang said.

(China.org.cn June 13, 2008)