Beijing, November 11 (KCNA) -- China's vice-premier sent a letter to the 2011 international mining conference opened recently in Tianjin, on behalf of the government.

In the letter, Li Keqiang explained the government's policy of giving priority to developing the mining industry.

The letter said China's effort for modernization needs backing from the steadily developing mining industry.

It underscored the need to develop the mineral prospecting, based on advanced technologies, and utilize resources in a comprehensive way, promoting a long-term, stable and rapid economic growth.