Chinese President Hu Jintao joined a number of teachers in Beijing on Friday in celebrating the 20th National Teachers' Day.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Vice-President Zeng Qinghong also attended the celebration held in the Great Hall of the People.     

The state leaders warmly shook hands with the teachers and had a picture taken with the group who were representatives of a conference commending outstanding teachers.

Extending greetings to the representatives, all teachers and educational workers throughout the country and expressing his appreciation of the contributions they have made to the development of education, Hu said education constitutes the foundation under and propeller behind the overall strength of a country.

He urged the Party and government to care for the well-being of teachers and educational workers and cultivate an atmosphere of respect for teachers and education.

China's National Teachers' Day falls on Sept. 10.

(Xinhua News Agency September 11, 2004)