The MII aims to provide broadband internet to more than 95% of the villages and townships across the country by the end of 2008. For central and eastern provinces it will aim for 100%, Xinhua reported.
Under the 11th five-year plan, the rural telecom policy targets voice service for all villages while developing internet connections in all townships. According to the MII, 99.5% of the administrative villages now have phone connections, while 92% of the townships enjoy broadband internet.
MII aims to provide an upgraded broadband services and quality internet connection, in order to provide a better infrastructure for rural villagers to enjoy advanced telecom services in the future, Xinhua said. MII also plans to promote communication services in the country's rural areas this year, and will set up ICT kiosks in rural villages.
Since August, 2003, MII has been implementing the village telephone project nationwide in conjunction with the six leading carriers"”China Telecom, China Netcom, China Mobile, China Unicom, China Satcom and China Railcom.