Support focus changes for residents after relocation

The focus of support for people who have been resettled in residential communities from impoverished rural areas has shifted to community building and governance, an official said on Nov 5.

The change is aimed at helping people become accustomed to and fit their new lives and pursue prosperity, Wang Aiwen, vice-minister of civil affairs, told a news conference.

Wang said more than 9.6 million rural residents who lived in poor, inhospitable areas have been relocated to about 35,000 new residential communities amid efforts to eradicate poverty.

He noted that basic public facilities and services have been built in these communities, adding that efforts have been made to maintain distinctive cultural traditions and customs.

Xinhua News Agency contributed to this story.