Lawmaker Zhang Xiaobing from the city of Bayannur reported to Xi on local efforts in eco-system restoration and the prevention of desertification near the northerly bend of the Yellow River.

Xi, who is familiar with the situation in the region near this section of the Yellow River, said, "Local environmental protection involves both tackling the salinization of agricultural land and preventing and controlling desertification."

Xi has always stressed adopting "a holistic approach" to conserving mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes and grasslands. This time, he brought "deserts" into the picture.

Top-level design and comprehensive measures are needed to protect the eco-systems in mountains, rivers, forests, farmlands, lakes, grasslands and deserts, Xi said.