Vice Premier Hui Liangyu has urged government officials to continue their efforts in flood and drought control on Monday.

"Heavy rains in southern China have caused considerable economic losses, while some northern parts of the country are suffering from lasting drought. Moreover, the Typhoon Neoguri is coming at an unexpectedly early time," Hui said at a work conference of the State Flood Control and Drought Relief Headquarters.

Hui, also chief of the headquarters, warned that strengthened efforts in preparation for possible floods and droughts, and disaster relief work were crucial to the country's economic development.

He urged officials to prioritize public safety, strengthen disaster forecasting and ensure timely disaster relief work.

He asked officials to strengthen supervision over expenditure and safety measures during reservoir construction.

"Flood prevention must not see any relaxation," Hui said, adding that local governments should accelerate reconstruction after natural disasters.

(Xinhua News Agency April 22, 2008)