Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang checks the quality of drinking water during an inspection tour in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Feb. 26, 2010. [Xinhua]

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang called for more efforts to promote the development of China's west region on Saturday.

Li made the remarks during an inspection tour in the west Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

"Expanding domestic consumption is key to economic restructuring which is crucial to accelerating the transformation of economic development mode, a strategic task for China at present and in the long run," Li said.

Advancing the development of west China is conducive to boosting domestic consumption, adjusting the structure and raising the level of economic development, given the region's vast area and great demand potential, he said.

Li also urged more efforts to raise the quality and efficiency of economic growth by promoting circular economy and green economy, and enhancing resource conservation and environmental protection.

The West Development Strategy is a policy adopted by the Chinese government in January 2000 to help underdeveloped western region, including 12 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities, to catch up with the more prosperous eastern region.

(Xinhua News Agency February 28, 2010)