Based on the velocity fields obtained from the Crust Movement Observation Network of China,we analyzed crustal deformation characteristics and its relationship with the M≥7.0 earthquakes in western China by the least squares colocation modeling,velocity residual analysis and strain rate field calculation. The principal results include that: ①the GNSS strain rate field shows clear EW extension in western region of the Tibetan Plateau(west of 92.5°E)and E-W compression in eastern region(92.5°E～100°E). ②the GNSS rotation rate field shows gradually attenuating rotation deformation from the south to the north in western China. Specifically,an extensive clockwise rotation with the maximum value of 4.5×10^-8rad/a is dominate in southern Tibet;the Qaidam block is characterized with counterclockwise rotation with the extremum of -1.0×10^-8rad/a;the Tarim block is featured with clockwise rotation with the maximum of 1.0×10^-8rad/a. ③ all of the seven strong M≥7.0 earthquakes during the period of 2001～2018 in western China occurred at the edge of the high-value zone of strain accumulation consistent with the tectonic background,suggesting the late period characteristics of strong earthquake preparation. Therefore,the junctions of the edge of the high maximum shear strain zone and the large strike slip faulting zone,the edge of the high extension strain zone and the large normal faulting zone,and the edge of the high pressure strain zone and the large reverse faulting zone are the potential places for future strong earthquakes. ④ the 2001 Kunlun earthquake has caused extensive EW compression in the eastern Tibetan Plateau,which reflects a certain extent of the deformation adjustment process caused by the eastward movement of the Bayan Har block,resulting in conducting to the occurrence of Wenchuan and Lushan earthquakes.