The Chinese government approved Meishan city in southwest China's Sichuan province as a national historical and cultural city, according to an official reply released by the State Council on March 19.

The reply asked the provincial and city governments to further study and explore the connotation and value of historical and cultural resources, systematically carry out archaeological investigations and historical data research, and sort out the spatial pattern and development path of the ancient city of Meizhou.

While formulating and implementing special protection plans for Meishan and cultural relics, work should be done to properly handle the relationship between urban construction and the protection of historical and cultural resources, with particular attention on the layout and genuine style of the city, the reply said.

Additionally, the city is asked to protect and restore historic neighborhoods, shore up weak links in infrastructure and public service facilities, and continuously improve the quality of people’s living environment.

The restoration and protection of immovable cultural relics and historic buildings will be strengthened, and any changes to the natural landscape and environment correlating with the city’s historical and cultural elements are strictly prohibited, the reply said.