China stresses Party leadership in cultural reform

Senior Chinese leader Li Changchun on Wednesday called for enhanced Party leadership to safeguard further reforms and development in the country's cultural sector.

"We must adhere to the Party's leadership to provide solid guarantees on the correct direction of cultural developments and a strong push for the sector," said Li, a Standing Committee member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

Li also pledged to give priority to culture's social benefits over its economic value in coordinating the development of public cultural initiatives and commercial activities.

In addition, more efforts should be made to motivate the enthusiasm and creativity of people and artists, Li said at an award ceremony held here on Wednesday afternoon.

Honors were given to 32 regional authorities, 296 organizations and 198 individuals for their contributions to promoting cultural reform.

In his remarks, Li summarized the "historical achievements" in cultural reform since 2007, as a preliminary mechanism of public cultural services has been put in place for both urban and rural residents.

Moreover, Li highlighted the inscription of cultural initiative in the country's general plan on social and economic development, as well as enhanced official guidance in the creation of cultural products.

Prior to the ceremony, President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao, Vice President Xi Jinping and Vice Premier Li Keqiang also greeted representatives attending the event.