Improved livelihood in Tibet： visitors' note

　　Over 130 experts and scholars from 30 countries and regions were wowed by the improved livelihood of China's southwest border region, as they visited several rural villages in Tibet Autonomous Region on July 6 ahead of a forum on the region's development.

　　"Improved living standard"

　　Lhasa has changed greatly in past years, said a 34-year-old English teacher in Tibet. She revealed that the gap in living standards between Lhasa and other Chinese cities is closing thanks to more sophisticated transportation and infrastructure.

　　"Students here are free to receive education, accommodation and food at a school where they can learn Tibetan, Chinese and English," she said. "My best friend is an ethnic Han and she said she wants to marry a Tibetan guy."

　　"Tibet has transformed significantly since the reform and opening policy, and we have enjoyed better living standards," she said proudly.

　　"My only hope is to maintain this peaceful way of life and enjoy freedom of religion as I do now," said the owner of a small grocery store. He revealed that he runs one of the first stores in the village and owns 4000 square meters of farmland, which provides him with a yearly income of over 30,000 yuan (roughly US$4486.25).

　　He added that his two-story, 14 room house, which he built himself, was partially funded by the government.

　　"I joined the livestock farm under the incentive of the government," said another native Tibetan. "Me and my family moved to a new house without any expenses, and even the Buddha shrine, fridge, TV and furniture are paid for by the government."

　　He and his family are among the 183 households that have been relocated to government-subsidized shelters under poverty alleviation programs. They are now living in a better community with convenient transportation and advanced infrastructure.

　　As part of the targeted poverty alleviation effort, the program not only provides those families with a better living standard but also capital to start businesses.

　　"I am very satisfied with my new house and have much to look forward to in the future," said the native Tibetan, who benefits from the program.