Chinese Premier Li Keqiang commended Tuesday the country's 15 million teachers for their contribution to China's development, two days ahead of the National Teachers' Day.

In a meeting with model urban and rural teachers, Li said China's advancement in all economic and social sectors were in part thanks to teachers' hard work.

The premier urged teachers to continue helping turn China's rich human resources into "talent bonuses," encouraging innovation and creation and helping promote social justice.

He also commended the selfless dedication of rural teachers while promising more government support to provide greater rewards as well as personal elevation for those who choose to work in the countryside.

Governments and Party committees at all levels must not cut back on financial support for education, Li said, adding that reforms in the education sector must be deepened.

(Xinhua News Agency September 8, 2015)