Chengdu was entitled officially a "national forest city" at the opening ceremony for the Fourth Session of China's City Forest Forum, which was convened here this week.

With a theme "scientific development and harmonious city and countryside," the session, sponsored by the State Forestry Administration, the Sichuan Provincial Government and Economic Daily, and organized by the Chengdu Municipal Government, attracted around 600 guests from home and abroad.

As a major metropolis in southwest China, Chengdu is a fascinating and dynamic city with beautiful human and natural landscapes and splendid culture and civilization. It is a perfect model of urban construction, greening and landscaping. All guests spoke highly of the city and believed the session would be of great significance to spur more other cities in China to follow the green path of Chengdu.

Just after the conclusion of the session, Chengdu formulated a plan on turning itself more ecological. By 2020, the city will achieve an urban green plot ratio of 40%, green coverage rate of 40% and per capita green public park area of 15 square meters.

In later years, all public space, streets and roads will be made green with trees and plants. Thirty per cent of newly-built residential quarters shall be afforested.

By implementing the projects involving protection of natural forests, returning land for farming to forestry and man-made forest, a high-efficient forest resource system with rational structure and diversified function will be established in 2010.In 2020, 12,000 to 15,000 rural holiday resorts and attractions will be constructed in 14 districts (cities) and counties throughout the city.