Chinese poor promised more social security

The Chinese government has decided to establish a special branch of its social security system for low-income people in urgent need of help.

It will target such people struggling after accidents or with serious diseases or other predicaments, and "fill in the blanks of the existing social aid system," according to a statement issued after a Wednesday meeting of the State Council that was presided over by Premier Li Keqiang.

The system will be implemented by local governments, and the central government will provide "moderate" subsidies.

Large companies and charity organizations will also enjoy subsidies and tax breaks in exchange for helping to fund the system, said the council.

More details are expected to be unveiled by the government in the near future.