BEIJING, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Ma Kai urged here Friday that public complaints and petitions should be handled properly to promote social stability and harmony.

Ma Kai, also secretary-general of the State Council, or cabinet, made the remarks at a national conference attended by heads of relevant government departments dealing with such petitions.

Ma stressed that the government should make more efforts to prevent the occurrence of disputes and complaints right from the start.

He also called for better investigation and sound settlement of petition cases.

He urged setting up a risk assessment system in the decision making procedure in major social issues.

Better implementing existing policies and the accountability system for relevant official departments are also needed, Ma said.