国内英语新闻:Premier Li hears the people's counsel

BEIJING, Jan. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang listened to people from science, education, culture, medical and sports circles and the public at large while drafting a government work report.

A total of 10 representatives shared their views on the government's work in 2013 and made some suggestions to improve the report at a forum held on Friday, according to a circular published on Sunday.

The speakers included hybrid rice researcher Yuan Longping, writer Feng Jicai, actor Li Xuejian and badminton star Lin Dan, as well as representatives from universities, hospitals and bookstores, according to the circular.

"The purpose of the country's development is to serve the people's material and cultural demands. Without progress in science, education, culture, health and sports, our development will not be a comprehensive one, and is unsustainable," Li said.

After hearing opinions from a university student entrepreneur, Li said the government should formulate a program to support business start-ups by university students and graduates.

In response to words from a farmer from central China's Hunan Province and a migrant worker in east China's Jiangsu Province, Li said the Party and the government will pay continuous attention to solving their difficulties, and the representatives' comments will be taken into account in improving the draft.

He called on government departments at all levels to improve their work accordingly.

He expressed his thanks to the representatives and conveyed his greetings for the upcoming Chinese lunar new year.