During the visit the Premier spoke with local people about their difficulties and encouraged them to rebuild their hometown.

"I believe, with the guidance of the government and the Party, through joint efforts, we will finally achieve the success in the restoration work, and please take good care!"

Earlier in August, Typhoon Rananim lashed the province, leaving 164 dead and destroying tens of thousands of homes.

Several weeks after the Typhoon hit, local people's basic living conditions are improving and restoration of local infrastructure including water, electricity and education facilities is well under way.

(CRI September 1, 2004)