Its borders access 14 countries including Russia, India, Nepal, Vietnam and North Korea. For geographical information, see Excite's CityNet .
Individual characteristics vary widely from province to province.
Urbanization is causing classic housing problems in the larger cities, where the wealth is concentrated. Since its reopening to the West, China has maintained double digit GDP growth annually. Whilst much of this can be attributed to inward foreign investment, the speed of advancement is clearly evident. The Ninth Five-year Plan is available to the public. It clearly lays out the key areas of economic concern and conveys a good indication of how the Chinese Communist Party has prioritized its efforts to strengthen the national economy.