The Asian Development Bank (ADB)'s 1.5 billion-US dollar planned annual lending for the People's Republic of China for 2005-2007 will focus on projects in the poorer central and western regions, according to a Country Strategy and Program Update endorsed Wednesday.

More than 80 percent of the lending program, a significant increase from about 59 percent during 1986-2004, is earmarked for projects in the central and western regions, home to the majority of China's poor and ethnic minorities, the Manila-based ADB said in a statement.

"The benefits of growth must be inclusive and improve the lives of most people, particularly the poor," said Bruce Murray, country director for ADB's Resident Mission in China.

"ADB projects, particularly for improving infrastructure, will help create a climate for pro-poor economic growth in some of the poorer regions," he added.

The transport sector will continue to dominate ADB operations, accounting for 59 percent of total lending. The share of lending for environmental sustainability, such as projects for improving water supply and sanitation, will increase from 5.7 percent in 2004 to 24.4 percent in 2007.

While the expected 4.5 billion-dollar lending from 2005 to 2007 represents a significant financial transfer, the ADB's strategic impact will result from its ability to provide sound policy advice.

An annual technical assistance program of about 11.4 million dollars will support the lending program. The ADB will be involved in policy work related to building an enabling environment for the private sector, improving governance and reducing poverty.

Source: Xinhua