Zhang Yi, Secretary of CPC Ningxia Hui Autonomous Regional Committee, visited several energy and mining academic institutions and construction sites on Dec. 3, 2010. He pointed out that Ningxia, as a highly energy-dependent province, needed more reliable energy resources in the future. He urged geology and mineral resources departments to work harder to exploit minerals, water and new energy resources in the region.

Zhang first went to visit a groundwater exploration site in Yumuqiao Village, Wuling City, and talked with constructors. Then, he listened to a work report delivered by the person in charge of Bureau of Geology and Mineral Exploration and Development and learned the latest developments in geology and mineral exploration equipment.

He stressed the important and strategic status of the geology and mineral exploration sector in the country’s economic and social development. It was also crucial for scientific and sustainable development. He spoke highly of the contribution and sacrifice of geologists. “You have overcome countless difficulties and worked hard for years. As far as I know, a lot of you went to extremely remote areas and lived and work in tough conditions. It’s not easy to attain such great achievements to Ningxia’s economy and society. Thank you very much!”

The fact that abundant mineral resources, especially coal, supported Ningxia’s development in recent years is not possible to change in near future. In order to fulfill the goals of the 12th five-year-plan and build a harmonious and affluent Ningxia, the economy must keep on developing well and fast. Sustainable energy resources will serve as a solid foundation for economic growth. As a result, Zhang called on geology and mineral resource departments to get a clear picture of their responsibilities, actively adapt to new challenges and satisfy various needs of Ningxia. They should endeavor to make new breakthrough and provide enough energy resources.

To achieve this goal, he pointed out, the departments must put priority on energy resources exploration, search for potential replacement areas, expand advantaged non-metal minerals exploration, continue to explore metal minerals and try hard to develop new energy resources. Moreover, water, especially groundwater of high quality, is key to solve some livelihood problems and improve the quality of life. Thus the departments must also pay attention to water searching and migration.

Finally, Zhang pointed out that geology and mineral resources exploration was a knowledge, technological and human resource intensive job. On one hand, the departments must exploit staff’s potential, import more talents, continue to train professionals and establish motivation system to retain talents. On the other hand, the departments should update management mechanism according to market rules and mobilize the initiative of staff and managers.