President Hu Jintao has urged Chinese women to continue to work hard for the country's development and modernization. His call comes on the eve of the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day.

Addressing a gathering marking the event at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Hu Jintao said Party committees and all levels of government, should fully implement the basic state policy of gender equality, eliminate discrimination against women, and crack down on violations of women's legal rights. Hu Jintao stressed that the right to equal participation in politics and economic and social development, and equal access to the benefits of economic development must be protected. Noting that Chinese women have made great contributions in building the country and the nation's rejuvenation, Hu Jintao also called on Chinese women to play a bigger role in the country's modernization drive.

President Hu said, "In the new historical environment, we should seize opportunities, meet challenges, actively promote scientific development, and improve social harmony. To strive for new victories in building a prosperous society, and to create a new situation in the socialist cause with Chinese characteristics, men and women of all ethnic groups need to come together with unrelenting efforts."