Premier Wen Jiabao has held a meeting at the China Seismological Bureau. The premier called for better monitoring and forecasting of earthquakes. After hearing the bureau's report on the Wenchuan earthquake, Premier Wen Jiabao outlined four goals.

After hearing the bureau's report on the Wenchuan earthquake, Premier Wen Jiabao outlined four goals.

First, he said, earthquake monitoring should be intensified. More must be done to get more accurate information on the genesis of earthquakes. Alerts for possible aftershocks should be promptly given to prevent additional casualties. And the monitoring for signs of possible earthquakes in other parts of China must be strengthened.

Second, he said quake assessment should be carried out immediately to provide better information on the possible location of survivors and to help with reconstruction.

Third, he said the panel of seismologists just formed must provide better guidelines for post-quake rescue operations and engage in more research to improve disaster forecasting.

Fourth, he called for the formation of professional teams to lead future rescue and relief operations.

(CCTV May 19, 2008)