A journalist group from Australia highly commented on the social and economic progress in southwestern China's Tibet after wrapping up their 5-day tour, the China News Services reported.

Having been gotten close to the real life of Tibetans, the Australian reporters pointed out the social, religious and economic development in Tibet deserved a thumb-up as they could feel and see how happy Tibetans are.

Jiang Jie, vice-chairman of chairman of the CPC central committee of Tibet, briefed the group on the regional development in decades in terms of environmental protection, tourism development, educational update and cultural preservation.

When answered, Jiang pointed out that as the cradle of Tibetan Buddhism, Tibet now has 1,700 plus monasteries, big and small, and the people there are enjoying religious freedom.

"I only visited a small part of Tibet, but I'm sure what Tibet has achieved so far is really amazing. For example, its development in electricity power, transportation, tourism, etc.," said Rowan Callick from The Australian.

He added,"When in rural Nyingchi of southern Tibet, I was quite taken aback to see what a wonderful life the locals are living. Their houses are really beautiful."

The government has exerted great efforts to guarantee the smooth operation of religious ritual for ordinary Tibetans and monks or nuns. Investments have been pumped into improving infrastructure facilities in monasteries to realize the supply of water, electricity, transportation and network. Besides, monks and nuns have been covered with health care allowances and monthly old-age pensions, according to Jiang.

The group visited the Potala Palace, the Jokhang Temple, the Lulang County in southern Tibet, etc. between Aug. 20 and 25.