China will not give up its search for the Malaysia Airlines jetliner that vanished early on Saturday as long as there is a glimmer of hope, Premier Li Keqiang vowed on Thursday.

"The families are very anxious. We are also anxiously waiting for information. People's lives are involved, and it is a top priority," he said when answering the first question at his NPC news conference.

He also urged all parties to enhance coordination and handle appropriately issues related to the passengers' families.