Abstract:China’s great progress in astronomical observations and space explorations has been witnessed for the past few years. A network of astronomical facilities has been well established, and a number of new big projects are being discussed. How to make full benefit of the existing facilities? What is the optimal plan for the future development? These are among the important strategic issues that we are facing today. This article discusses the strategic role that astronomy is playing in China’s overall science and technology development, and compares and analyses the current status and future development both world astronomy and Chinese astronomy.The article also discusses the development of China’s astronomical facilities and related technologies.