Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang said on Monday that employment and people's livelihood should be guaranteed.

Li, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when visiting the southern Guangdong Province, a major base for export-oriented manufacturers that had provided jobs for many migrant workers.

Li highlighted the importance of providing stable job opportunities, asking local governments to make every effort to support steady production of manufacturers and thus ensure employment.

Professional training and employment guidance should be given to job seekers, especially migrant workers, to help them maintain their incomes, said Li.

He also urged local authorities to strengthen support to enterprises and help them develop new markets and upgrade their technology.

(Xinhua News Agency February 10, 2009)