IV. Priorities for Next Steps

At 8 AM, April 18, MIIT had the fifth steering group meeting for quake relief in Yushu, Qinghai province. The meeting was attended by Minister of Industry and Information Technology, Li Yizhong, who was just back from his trips to foreign countries. Minister Li listened to reports and made clear requirements. Mr. Li stressed that organization and leadership should be enhanced in compliance with joint deployment by Central Party Committee and the State Council, detailed and practical measures should be taken and all parties concerned be fully devoted to quake relief endeavor. At present, we should focus on the following tasks.

Firstly, resume telecommunications completely, guarantee fuel supply to telecom machine rooms and mobile base stations and improve telecom quality.

Secondly, continue to organize and secure goods and material supply for disaster relief, especially the storage and allocation of medicines, medical equipment and the like and ensure on-time supply in satisfactory quality and quantity.

Thirdly, based on on-going tasks, launch as soon as possible post-disaster reconstruction planning with the focus on recovery of telecom infrastructure. Pertinent researches should be carried out to ensure scientific planning. Efforts should also be made to identify damages to industries and SMEs in the quake-hit areas and develop plans for production resumption quickly.

Fourthly, organize donation activities in ministerial departments.

Fifthly, continue work shifts and security guarantee.