More than 80 percent of China's rural population has access to tap water and water quality has improved significantly, according to vice-minister of water resources Tian Xuebin on Friday.

Drinking water policy is part of a nationwide effort to bring basic public services to impoverished populations and end domestic poverty before 2021.

While speaking at a news conference held by the State Council Information Office in Beijing, Tian said safe drinking water has been ensured for all poor farmers.

But he noted the water supply situation in rural areas is still in its primary stage due to several reasons, including uneven distribution of water resources.

The ministry would continue to consolidate water supply capacity in rural areas to ensure reliable water supply, and ensure poverty relief results stand the test of time.

"We will hold a down-to-earth attitude in our work and solve problems in a timely fashion," he added.