Senior leaders have called on Chinese people to concentrate their energy on quake relief and economic and social development at the same time.

Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the call when meeting quake-relief model workers on Wednesday.

Xi Jinping, who is China's vice-president and also member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, also met with the model workers.

The model workers made lectures in the Great Hall of the People on their deeds and thoughts in quake relief efforts.

Li Changchun said that in fighting against the 8.0 magnitude quake that jolted southwest China's Sichuan Province on May 12, great national solidarity and spirit have been shown.

He praised the 37 model workers who came from different occupations, including the military, police, medical services and education, for their courage and engagement at the very front of the relief missions.

Li stressed that all party and government officials in quake-affected areas should not let up in supporting survivors and striving to help them rebuild their homes and the local economy.

On the other hand, officials should also make more preparations for the impending Olympics, he said.

(Xinhua News Agency June 12, 2008)