President Hu Jintao stressed that a shift in the country's mode of economic growth is an important and urgent strategic task, noting that it is crucial for maintaining national economic and social development.

During an inspection tour of east China's Fujian Province from January 12 to 16, Hu called for stronger resolve and more vigorous measures to promote conservation-minded, environment-minded and safety-minded development.

China will push economic and social development following principles of human-centered, all-round, coordinated and sustainable development, Hu said, who is also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

While in Fujian, Hu visited rural villages, companies and urban communities to oversee how they were boosting local economic and social development in a scientific way.

During visits to manufacturing businesses, Hu stressed the need for accelerating economic restructuring and building a conservation-oriented and environment-friendly society, to pave the way for a shift in economic growth mode.

He encouraged local scientists to accelerate innovation in science and technology and enhance the role of science and technology in economic growth.

Hu emphasized the need to improve the decision-making process so that reforms can be made in a coordinated way.

Hu also called for the further promotion of visits and economic and cultural exchanges between the mainland and Taiwan to encourage peace and stability.

Hu also visited military troops stationed in Fujian and extended Spring Festival greetings to them and their families.

(Xinhua News Agency January 17, 2006)