Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Tuesday invited more talented foreigners to work in China, saying the country will improve services for them.

Wen made the remarks at a meeting with more than 20 representatives of foreign experts, who have helped in China's social progress.

Wen said China pays equal attention to attracting both investment and talented personnel, while utilizing science and technology to achieve sustainable development.

This calls for an active flow of talented foreigners to China to help with the nation's modernization drive, the premier said.

He urged related organs to improve policy and service level for all the foreign experts coming to work in China.

Isabel Crook, a 95-year-old Canadian expert in English teaching, gave her views on the key role that can be played by strong, vibrant rural communities.

She suggested the government reevaluate the current practice of closing primary schools in small villages and concentrating them in larger villages.

Other representatives of talented foreigners working in China, including Daniel Jospeh Dudek, a US expert in environmental protection area, and Jean Dorey, a French expert in the education sector, offered suggestions to the Chinese government for tackling environmental challenges and boosting cooperation in the education sector.

Wen listened attentively to their remarks and exchanged views.

Wen also extended festival greetings to all foreign experts and international friends working in China, as well as to their families. He expressed gratitude for their contributions to China's development.

(Xinhua News Agency February 10, 2010)