China intends to explore for petroleum, natural gas, coal, rare metals and other mineral resources in ten key areas in western regions.

Exploration for minerals which are urgently needed and have significant bearing on the national economy will be accelerated in regions including Tarim, Qaidam, and Altay, the upper reaches of the Jinsha River, and the middle and lower reaches of the Lancang (Mekong) River, said Tian Fengshan, Minister of Land Resources, in Beijing Thursday.

Tian said during today's national teleconference that in addition to mineral resources, China will strengthen investigations into land and water resources in the west as a base for the development of western China, and to relieve water shortages there.

He emphasized the harmonious development between resources utilization and environmental protection, and said the ministry will monitor farmland on slopes, and provide information on turning farmland into forests and grassland.

He suggested the establishment of geological disaster forecasting system at the Three Gorges area to minimize losses.

A special conference on land resources development in western China will be held soon in Lanzhou, capital of west China's Gansu Province.