Meeting held on earthquake relief, economy and Olympics

Earthquake reconstruction, more disaster relief, a stable economy and a successful Olympics topped the agenda of a high level meeting held by the CPC Central Committee and the State Council.

Half of 2008 has passed, and the nation has experienced a lot.

All the senior officials attending the meeting are looking into the major tasks of the country to gear up for the difficulties in the coming six months.

Perhaps the most urgent is resettling survivors and reconstruction in the quake zone.

The meeting called for full efforts to treat the injured, and prevent secondary disasters such as epidemics. And damaged infrastructure must be repaired so reconstruction can get underway.

Favorable policies have been created for optimum use of available resources in rebuilding. The central government has launched a "one-to-one" aid policy that matches each county in the quake zone with a province. And all central government departments have been mobilized to support reconstruction.

The meeting also assessed the complicated economic situation, and urged full preparation for possible problems and challenges.

The decision was taken to stabilize the economy by strengthening and improving macro-control, and deepening the opening-up policy. Economic, lawful, and administrative measures will be used to increase the supply of necessities and commodity shortage, and rein in rising prices.

The meeting called for favorable policies for farmers and the goal of a good harvest. It also pushed for tighter inspection in financial sectors, to stabilize housing markets and prevent financial risks.

The meeting stressed that hosting the Olympic Games has long been the desire of the Chinese people, and reiterated China's commitment to the international community. The meeting also urged China to prepare well and strive to present a high quality Olympics. The meeting asked all Chinese people to strive for a secure and friendly environment. Chinese athletes are also being encouraged to compete for a top ranking on the medals list.

The meeting emphasized increased development on the basis of economic progress of employment, social security, education, hygiene, culture and other areas that affect people's daily lives. The meeting placed special significance on taking good care of the survivors of last month's earthquake, saying special attention should be given to their relocation, their children's education and the living condition of those orphaned or disabled by the quake.

To ensure social stability, the meeting pointed out that CPC committees and governments at all levels should improve political mechanisms. Party committees were asked to absolutely carry out the decisions and policies of the central committee, and to be leaders in both quake relief and economic development.

Finally, the meeting highlighted the Chinese nation's devotion and spirit of sacrifice displayed during recent quake relief operations. Leaders called for the continuation of strong reconstruction efforts in the quake zone, increased economic development, and a successful Olympic Games.