Premier Li Keqiang made important instructions. He stressed that, with such a large population but limited farmland resources, China must maintain its farmland above the minimum threshold of 120 million hectares at all times, a "red line" which must be observed. China must attach equal importance to the quantity and quality of farmland to ensure its food security.

While protected agriculture is needed to promote modern agriculture, a specific land policy shall be introduced to regulate its land use with enhanced supervision.

Local governments, while pressing ahead with rural land reform and urbanisation, should apply the strictest farmland protection system and land-saving system to ensure China's food supply, and conserve the resources for future generations.

Mr Han Changfu, Minister of Agriculture and Mr Jiang Daming, Minister of Land and Resources addressed the conference and made specific instructions. Senior officials from provincial and local governments and competent departments attended the conference.