The Chinese government vowed to focus on the development of villages in a major policy document issued on Tuesday, but stressed buildings should not be demolished in a haphazard way while improving villagers' living conditions.

Village development will be pushed forward in a substantial, stable manner and in line with the principle of thrift, said the document jointly issued by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council, China's cabinet.

"We should prevent demolish the existing buildings in a haphazard way so as to add financial burdens to farmers," says the document.

Farmers increasingly desire better environment and image of their villages on top of improved living conditions as China progresses to a more prosperous society, it says.

The document requires governments at all levels to issue guidelines on village development and help farmers solve problems related to drinking water, roads, electricity and fuel.

The government should help farmers separate their own living quarters from those of livestock and poultry.

As villages are rebuilt, developers are required to protect ancient houses and relics. "Haphazard demolition and reconstruction are forbidden," adds the document.

Source: Xinhua