Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks at a conference honoring those who contributed to forestry protection and development.

    "Forests, the mainstays of the ecosystem and cradles of human civilization, boast huge ecological, economic and social benefits," Jia said.

    Developing the forestry sector was important to prevent natural disasters, improve the environment, slow global warming, enhance agricultural yields, increase farmers' incomes and alleviate the pressure on the country's energy resource supply, he said.

    Through years of efforts, the area of forest plantations in China was the highest in the world, and had doubled since 1949, Jia said.

    At the conference, 10 journalists were awarded for their coverage of forest protection and media organizations, writers, books and journals were also commended for their contribution to forestry development.