BEIJING, Sept. 28 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for dedication and greater efforts to make new and greater contributions to advancing the high-quality development of the cause of women and children.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in his recent instruction on the country's work for women and children.

Xi said that since the 18th National Congress of the CPC in 2012, the legal system for protecting the rights and interests of women and children has seen continuous improvement, while the development environment for them has been optimized and enhanced.

China's international influence in the field of women and children has also significantly grown, Xi said.

Xi stressed that women are an important force and children a future vital force in building a strong nation and achieving national rejuvenation.

CPC committees and governments at all levels are urged to deepen their understanding of the importance regarding the development of the cause of women and children, and of doing a good job in the work for women and children.

Xi also underlined upholding the basic national policy of gender equality and child-first development, and implementing the guidelines for the development of women and children.

Xi stressed the importance of creating favorable conditions and platforms for women's participation in economic and social development, and protecting the legal rights and interests of women and children.

Xi's instruction was conveyed at the seventh national conference on the work for women and children held Thursday in Beijing.

Li Qiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chinese premier, attended the meeting and delivered a speech.

The instruction made by Xi has pointed out the way for better work for women and children, Li said.

Li highlighted the need to uphold the basic national policy of gender equality and child-first development. He noted that taking into account the differences between genders and the special interests of women and children, more effective measures should be implemented to better protect their rights and interests.

The conference was held via video and telephone.