JINAN — Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli on Oct 23 called for the continuation of “solid, strong poverty relief work” over the next five years.

Zhang made the remarks while on an inspection tour of the eastern province of Shandong. He underscored that the 2016-2020 period will be crucial to achieving a well-off society.

The vice premier’s tour saw him visit startups, as well as relocation and education firms established to support poverty alleviation.

Zhang said the most difficult task was in rural areas, and no effort should be spared to ensure the entire population is lifted out of poverty by 2020.

Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli (5th L) visits villagers in Houtun village, Heze city, east China’s Shandong province on Oct 22. Zhang made an inspection tour in Shandong from Oct 22 to 23 on poverty relief work.[Photo/Xinhua]

He mentioned instructions by President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Keqiang that outline more measures, adding that future poverty relief work will be adjusted to the conditions of each specific area.

Poverty-alleviation funds shall be first channelled to the poorest areas to solve urgent problems, and any embezzlement or fraud will not go unpunished, Zhang said.

Investment in education, employment and startups will be enhanced in poor areas, while poverty relief and environmental protection shall be coordinated.

Accountability will be thoroughly established to guarantee the poor receive the help they need, Zhang added.

Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli (C) poses for a group photo with local farmers in Luwan village, Heze city, east China’s Shandong province on Oct 23. Zhang made an inspection tour in Shandong from Oct 22 to 23 on poverty relief work.[Photo/Xinhua]

Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli (C, back) presides over a symposium on poverty relief work in Heze city, east China’s Shandong province on Oct 23. Zhang made an inspection tour in Shandong from Oct 22 to 23 on poverty relief work. [Photo/Xinhua]

Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli visits the HP software talents training base in Jining, east China’s Shandong province on Oct 22. Zhang made an inspection tour in Shandong from Oct 22 to 23 on poverty relief work.[Photo/Xinhua]