Located in Qingyuan, northern Guangdong, the Liannan Yao Autonomous County is known for its gorgeous mountainous scenery and culture of the Yao minority. However, the mountainous landscape also led to the poor development of transportation networks, which has hindered the local economy growth.
Fang Yiling is a Yao lady who once worked outside and then came back, working for her hometown, Liannan. Being a Deputy to the 14thNational People's Congress, Fang has been busy traversing mountains and knocking on doors, to gather public opinions on the construction of a high-speed rail station in the village.
Fang recognizes the significance of establishing a better transportation network in the Liannan Yao Autonomous County. “I presented six proposals when I attended the first session of the 14thNPC last year, three among which are about transportation,” she said.
She elaborated that Liannan could attract more tourists and generate more income if it had a direct high-speed train connection. In addition, people could sell their agricultural products to other parts of the country and travel more often to the big cities.
Thus far, national ministries and commissions have responded actively to Fang Yiling's proposals on improving transportation networks in the northern part of Qingyuan. “I will keep addressing transportation issues during this year’s Two Session and continue to focus on our transportation development,” said Fang.
China has 56 ethnic groups. Alongside the majority Han population, there are 55 ethnic minority groups, accounting for less than 10 percent of the total population. According to the 14th NPC Standing Committee, among the total 2,977 deputies, 442 are from ethnic minorities, representing all 55 ethnic minority groups in China.
Reporter:Xu Mengmeng
Translator:Rofel, Jasmine
