BEIJING, Nov. 20 (Xinhua) -- A senior Chinese leader on Thursday advocated efforts to fully identify and control risks to the country's social stability.

    Efforts should be made to create a harmonious and peaceful environment for economic and social development, Zhou Yongkang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, told a national conference.

    All-out efforts should be made to address security problems involving public benefits and coordinate the interests of different social groups, he said.

    The official pledged the government would spare no effort to meet public demands.

    He also emphasized the importance of maintaining rural social stability. More attention should be paid to improving farmers' livelihoods and upgrading security measures in rural areas, he said.