Wen later visited keystone space scientist Qian Xuesen, 98, one of the founders of China's astronautics science.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao(R) talks with Qian Xuesen, a renowned scientist and founder of China's space technology, during his visit to Qian in Beijing, capital of China, on Aug. 6, 2009.

It was the Premier's fourth visit in recent years to the scientist who was father of China's rocket and satellite development. Qian's work has been recognized by a "National Scientist of Outstanding Dedications" award from the central government.

"You have devoted your whole life to the development of the country's defense technologies, and we are very happy to see you are still energetic," Wen told Qian.

"We wish you a long life," Wen said.

"I'm trying to live to be 100-years-old," Qian said.

The scientist, who studied at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and returned to China in 1955, called on the government to cultivate technologically-talented people for sustainable development of scientific research and development.