To compile and publish a new

　　Jilin is a beautiful land with bountiful resources. Since the founding of the PRC, especially through the years of the country's reform and opening up to the rest of the world, enormous changes have taken place in the economy of the province, and people from all walks of life have made magnificent achievements. Su Dongpo, a great writer of the Song Dynasty, wrote of Lushan Mountain “Lushan is beyond the knowing of one deep in the heart of the mountain.” Indeed, as Jilin natives we are not likely to know everything about our own province. But to build a socialist country with its own unique characteristics, before we can develop it rapidly we have no choice but to really get to know our own province. And to know the province well, we need to be increasingly familiar with its present situation. Meanwhile as part of the continuing opening up, a compact handbook presenting our province is greatly needed. It is needed both for when we go out in order to make ourselves known to the rest of our country and to the rest of the world, and for those Chinese and foreigners who come here for tourism, investment or partnership. It is of great significance to compile a book on Jilin Province , which introduces the general situation of the province, presents its unique features, and follows the developing trends. Like a business card, the new edition ofA Survey of Jilin Provincehighlights Jilin 's features and presents its developments. With concise words and a lively format, the compilers have visually as well as verbally produced a book that covers all that is necessary and yet is rather complete in spite of its size. The booklet presents many of the province's shining points and also highlights its general condition. The new edition ofA Survey of Jilin Provincewill not only meet the need for international exchanges and for our daily business receptions, but will give the province public exposure. It also serves as a tool for public servants and others to study, research and work with.

　　To carry out the goals set by the 16th Party Congress, we are striding forward in the long expedition of the new century.

　　A comprehensive knowledge of our own province, a better understanding of ourselves, and further publicity for our homeland are fundamental requirements for us to be good workers.

　　On the occasion of the publication of the new edition ofA Survey of Jilin Province, this preface that I am writing is a token of my warmest congratulations.

　　Hong Hu

　　Governor, Jilin Province