In the wake of the latest round of technological revolution and industrial transformation, Xi emphasized the need to increase the ranks of high-caliber workers to build an educated, skilled and innovative workforce.

He also called for efforts to create better employment and working conditions, as well as better reflect workers' labor, skills, knowledge and innovation in income distribution, in order to give the people a growing sense of fulfillment, happiness and security.

Addressing a gathering of 1,670 national model workers and 756 exemplary individuals, Xi said they are role models for the people and pillars of the nation. He encouraged them to cherish their laurels and continue to make new accomplishments.

When Xi said it is necessary to ensure that taking pride in labor becomes a social norm and that public support for labor is encouraged, the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause.

Chen Keying, an engineer with China National Offshore Oil Corp, said that Xi's words greatly motivated him as a worker engaged in oil and gas extraction in the South China Sea.