More poverty reduction efforts needed, says Xi

Authorities must accelerate poverty elimination efforts to support the building of a moderately prosperous country, President Xi Jinping said during an inspection in southwest China's Yunnan Province, which lasted from Jan. 19 to 21.

"The 'new normal' has not changed China's international status as the world's largest developing country," Xi said, referring to the current pace of economic development.

"[There is] only five to six years left for us to complete the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, time will not wait for us," Xi said, highlighting that poverty relief was the most arduous task.

Authorities must expedite poverty relief work -- with more action than words, he urged, adding that measures must be more effective.

Ludian County, which experienced a 6.5 magnitude earthquake in August last year, was the first on the president's inspection agenda.

While in Longtoushan Town, the epicenter of the quake, he reviewed post-disaster construction efforts and advised that the buildings must be able to withstand a quake of a similar magnitude and above.

The people staying in Ganjiazhai Village, where a temporary camp was set up for those displaced by the quake, warmly welcomed Xi. He greeted the crowd and inspected inside the tents to check the quality and thickness of their quilts.

"The disaster destroyed your homes, but the [Communist] Party [of China]and the government will help you build more beautiful ones," Xi said.

Xi also promised the people that their standard of living would be improved, and the government would continue to increase investment in rural areas and help to raise farmers' incomes. Endi