The provincial areas in western China have outperformed their eastern counterparts in terms of economic growth in recent years, but they must solve the same problems that have beset eastern areas if they are to become real growth engines for the world's second-largest economy.

During his trip to Gansu province on Monday, Premier Li Keqiang reaffirmed the western part of the country will serve as crucial leverage for the growth of the national economy and creating jobs.

Indeed, the economically backward western areas have great potential for growth, and their latecomer advantage means they can learn from the successful experiences of the eastern areas. This, together with preferential policies from the State, means development of the western region will accelerate rapidly.