YINCHUAN, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang called for more efforts to promote the development of China's west region on Saturday.

Li made the remarks during an inspection tour in the west Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

"Expanding domestic consumption is key to economic restructuring which is crucial to accelerating the transformation of economic development mode, a strategic task for China at present and in the long run," Li said.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang talks with villagers during an inspection tour in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Feb. 26, 2010

Advancing the development of west China is conducive to boosting domestic consumption, adjusting the structure and raising the level of economic development, given the region's vast area and great demand potential, he said.