BEIJING, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor Liu Yandong said on Thursday China would strive to set up a scientific and effective system for the protection of the country's intangible cultural heritage (ICH).

Governments at all levels must take the initiative in safeguarding ICH and, incorporate it into the work agenda and assessment system of officials, said Liu at a ceremony awarding certifications for China's UNESCO ICHs in Beijing.

She called for enacting related laws and regulations, as well as resolute measures to prevent the ravaging and destruction of ICHs by over-exploitation for economic purposes, such as tourism.

She also called for more funding and international cooperation in safeguarding ICHs.

China is a country with a rich cultural heritage. So far, a total of 29 cultural heritage categories have been included in the UNESCO ICH list.