Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang on Saturday called for more efforts to promote sound and fast growth in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.

Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made an inspection tour of the region from August 28 to 30. He visited factories, markets, pastoral areas and residential districts in Hohhot, Manzhouli and Ordos.

He said Inner Mongolia should develop economy with local characteristics, boost the development of modern agriculture and animal husbandry, and rationally develop and utilize mineral resources.

The region, one of China's important energy bases, should increase its energy supply with a highlight on the production security as well. Meanwhile, it should promote the development of recycling economy, and continue implementing energy saving and emission reducing policies.

He pointed out the eastern part of Inner Mongolia was a region of vast land area and great marketing potential. It should seize the opportunities to further strengthen its economic power.

He further stressed that, Inner Mongolia, the important ecological shelter for China's northern region, should pay more attention on ecological development and environmental protection.

During the visit, Li showed great concern on people's livelihood. He called for greater efforts to raise urban and rural people's income through various channels, and better solve people's housing and medical care problems, to further improve their lives.

(Xinhua News Agency September 1, 2008)