BEIJING, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- China, a major contributor to global poverty reduction, has reduced its massive poor population in recent decades amid fast economic growth, an official said Wednesday.

Farmers of the Miao ethnic group show harvested purple glutinous rice in Dali Village of Liangzhai Township in Rongshui Miao Autonomous County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 12, 2018. (Photo: Xinhua)

"With practical action in eliminating absolute poverty, China has made important contributions to the global cause of poverty reduction," said Zuo Changsheng, an official with the State Council Leading Group Office of Poverty Alleviation and Development, at the opening session of 2019 China Poverty Reduction International Forum.

China's poverty alleviation has progressed in line with economic development, said Zuo.

By the end of 2018, the number of people living in poverty in rural areas decreased to 16.6 million from 770 million in 1978, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.

With marked improvement in rural China's infrastructure and public service conditions, poverty-stricken areas have seen rapid economic growth and better environment, according to Zuo.

"China has always been an active advocate and strong promoter of, as well as an important contributor to global poverty reduction," said Zuo.

The country is ready to share its experiences in poverty reduction and implement the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, according to Zuo.

Thursday marks the sixth National Poverty Relief Day, which falls on Oct. 17 every year.