BEIJING — Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli called on authorities to improve their understanding of the nation’s geographic conditions and promote the use of geographic data.

Zhang made the remarks at a conference on the first census of national geographic conditions. The census began in 2013 and finished in early 2016.

Understanding the country’s geographic conditions is significant for mapping out national policies, Zhang said.

He said authorities should share the results of the national census and make them available to different departments and regions. The information should be used to provide better service for the people.

Authorities should also improve the way they monitor geographic information and promote the development of surveying and mapping industries, he said.

Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli (back C) presides over a conference on the first census of national geographic conditions in Beijing, capital of China, Nov 22, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]