BEIJING, July 20 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese central government plans to invest 138.4 billion yuan (21.38 billion U.S. dollars) in Tibet over the next five years to support the region's development and improve local people's lives.

The investment will primarily support 226 major construction projects in Tibet that will involve a total investment of 330.5 billion yuan, according to a statement issued Wednesday after a State Council meeting at which the plan was approved.

The projects will cover construction of facilities for the region's public services, as well as infrastructure such as railways, highways, airports and hydropower plants.

The investment will also be used to promote the region's local industries and protect the environment, the statement said.