China.org.cn | March 14, 2020
Xinhua News Agency:
Mr. Liu, you mentioned that many measures targeting the 52 poverty-stricken counties have been put forward since the COVID-19 epidemic outbreak to reduce its impact. Are there any plans on the standards, timetables and detailed arrangements regarding lifting them out of poverty? My second question is, as the fight against poverty has entered the final stage, what are the arrangements for a national census on poverty alleviation? Could you please explain a little? Thank you.
Liu Yongfu:
The standards for eliminating poverty won't change. They are income, a guarantee that poor people do not need to worry about food or clothing, and that they have access to compulsory education, basic medical services and safe housing. The timings generally will not change, either. Some places like Liangshan and Nujiang may postpone the relocation of poor people for one or two months. So, some places may make a few adjustments, but the issue must be resolved this year. Some places may complete the task a little late, but all the plans were made allowing for unknown circumstances. So as to ensure the accuracy of the achievements in poverty alleviation, a nationwide census will be conducted this year. The related deployment has been made and it is expected to be completed in the second half of this year or at the beginning of next year. Thank you.