Nevertheless, China remains committed to making its coal mines safe. In September, President Xi Jinping pledged to realize the UN Global Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, and at the climate change conference in Paris in December, China's strenuous efforts helped the international community reach a historic deal to keep the increase in global temperatures below 2 degrees Celsius.

Such commitments will be incorporated into China's domestic policies as its leadership has emphasized the concept of "green and inclusive" development in the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) for economic and social development.

That the Chinese leadership is committed to eliminating "absolute poverty" in the country by 2020 is good news for coalminers, especially those that work for small and medium-sized mines in China's poor and mountainous regions.

But to realize the ambitious goal of "green and inclusive" development, the government has to take integrated measures. And to reduce carbon emissions and prevent mine accidents, the government is likely to shut down poorly equipped and improperly managed coal mines.

To ensure these measures do not compromise the opportunities for poor villagers to earn their livelihood, the government should let them know that opportunities also exist in other areas.

For example, smog and intensive work pressure have made city residents yearn for the balm of country life. More and more urbanites want to experience the peaceful, tranquil and simple life of the countryside complete with green mountains, flowing streams and clean air. In fact, the number of investors in farms is increasing.

One can safely assume Li talked of these things while emphasizing mine safety and encouraging coalminers to not lose heart and explore opportunities other than working in mines. And hopefully, China realizes the goal of "zero death" in coal mines as soon as possible.

The author is China Daily chief correspondent in Brussels. fujing@chinadaily.com.cn