Chinese Vice-Premier Li Lanqing visited four prestigious scholars and scientists in Beijing on Thursday to offer his Lunar New Year greetings.
At Beijing University, Li Lanqing visited Ji Xianlin, a well-known Chinese linguist and translator. Li praised the 92 year-old professor for his outstanding contributions to promoting Sino-foreign cultural exchanges.
Li also visited Wang Xuan, Huang Kun and Wu Wenjun, three members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, to express his gratitude for their achievements in scientific research.
Li's discussions with the academicians included topics such as how to accelerate the development of China's education, and topics related to scientific and technological research.
Chen Zhili, minister of education, and Xu Guanhua, minister of science and technology, accompanied Li on his visits.
(Xinhua News Agency January 31, 2003)