China needs to get a better understanding of the forestry industry to improve the ecological environment, Vice Premier Hui Liangyu said at the opening ceremony of the China International Forestry Expo in Beijing on Thursday.

He said the expo would drive forward a modern forestry industry and it was a good opportunity to showcase China's achievements in the industry.

Wang Zhongyu, Vice Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, said the forestry industry had not only improved the world's ecological environment, it had also helped local farmers to generate more income.

He said the expo had established a platform for greater exchange and cooperation, and would contribute to the ecological environment and sustainable economic development.

(Xinhua News Agency December 21, 2007)