State leaders joined panel discussions with the country's political advisors on Wednesday, calling for concerted efforts to pull through the global financial crisis, which is unfolding its impact on the country's economy.

All parties, organizations, social strata and ethnic groups should unite to overcome difficulties, President Hu Jintao said in a discussion with members of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

He called on all Chinese people to stand together and "bravely move forward" even though difficulties were in sight.

"This year is of pivotal importance for the country to combat the financial crisis, maintain a steady and relatively rapid economic growth, promote people's well-being and ensure stability, " Hu told political advisors from the China Association for Promoting Democracy and the China Democratic League, two non-communist parties.

He also urged political advisors to "actively" offer suggestions for the country's development.

In a discussion with advisors from the circles of economy and agriculture, Premier Wen Jiabao said the country needed large-scale government investment as well as more social and private funds.

While the global economic crisis demands stronger government macro-control, the role of the market mechanism should also be given a full play, he said.

Wen called for resolute and prompt government decisions in the face of the meltdown, but stressed that officials must work according to the law and proper procedures.

"We must make sure every major government investment plan is appraised in a scientific way and will be known, understood and supervised by the people.

"The more difficulties we have, the more opinions we should solicit from various groups to help the country," he said.

Top legislator Wu Bangguo called on members of the Communist Party of China (CPC) to play an exemplary role and contribute wisdom and strength to the national development.

Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the 11th National People's Congress, stressed the importance of investigation and research on issues concerning people's livelihood in a bid to "reflect the real social situations and public opinions".

He urged the CPPCC members to make efforts to build a harmonious society.

(China Daily March 5, 2009)