The eradication of poverty in China requires a sustained, long-term effort and governments must do more to improve living conditions in underdeveloped regions, Premier Wen Jiabao said.

Wen made the remark in the written instruction to the awards ceremony for the 2nd China Poverty Eradication Award held at the Great Hall of the People.

Tuesday is the 14th International Eradication of Poverty Day. Poverty eradication is a historical task for China, said Wen, adding that society should support and take part in the efforts being made and that anti-poverty models should be widely publicized.

Vice Premier Hui Liangyu said at the ceremony that this year is the 20th year of the Chinese government's large-scale poverty eradication program.

He pointed out that China is still a developing country with low average per capita income. Disparities among regions and between urban and rural areas are still serious.

"Providing adequate food and clothing for poor people is essential in building a harmonious socialist society," said Hui.

The desire to care for the poor and fight poverty needs to be reinforced, he said, adding that the awards encourage society to help needy people and should therefore continue in the future.

The award was given on Tuesday to 12 people and organizations who had made an outstanding contribution to the fight against poverty.

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