BEIJING — The State Council said on Feb 6 that its departments must improve their work through consultation with the people.

Suggestions from representatives of the National People’s Congress and proposals from members of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference are important for the government to determine what people want, said a statement released after an executive meeting of the State Council.

As this year’s Two Sessions draw near, Premier Li Keqiang, presiding over the meeting, urged greater innovation in government work. Replies to suggestions and proposals that involve public interests and rights should be made known to the public in an orderly manner. Replies should be pertinent to the suggestions and proposals, instead of hollow bureaucratic talk. Face-to-face replies are encouraged.

The meeting on Feb 6 also discussed transparency and streamlining. According to the statement, State Council departments should work in unison with local government department on approval of investment projects.

The State Council called for online approval of investment as departments will work together more efficiently and transparently with the help of the Internet and Big Data.