BEIJING, May 10 (Xinhua) -- China will take targeted measures to improve people's livelihood in the border areas.

The government will improve local infrastructure and public services including education, medical care, old-age care and employment, according to a statement following a State Council executive meeting presided over by Premier Li Keqiang on Wednesday.

Border villages will have access to roads, electricity, telecommunication service, drinkable water, medical service and safe houses by 2020, according to the five-year development plan for boosting people's livelihood in border areas passed by the State Council.

The government will also offer preferential policies to support the border areas and encourage development of cultural tourism and other sectors and more exchanges and cooperation with neighboring regions, the statement added.