Qiu told Xinhua that a primary layout for China's possible natural World Heritage was expected to be completed within this year, which will list the candidates for the coming five to ten years.

China has 30 World Heritage so far, a qualification recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) covering natural spots and cultural staff.

But of China's heritage, only four were in the catalogue of natural heritage, which was markedly unbalanced, especially compared with China's broad territory and natural diversity, Qiu said.

Lack of fund and public awareness, poor management and the late triggering of application for natural World Heritage caused the imbalance, the official said.

"However, Chinese government and Chinese people have been attaching more importance on the problem and there will be more Chinese sites listed on the natural World Heritage catalogue," Qiu said.

| China Travel Update |