Xi stresses nation's self-reliance

At agricultural machinery centers and rice paddies, he held detailed talks with farmworkers and managers on production and management.

He stressed the importance of ensuring China’s food security so that the country can always control its own food supply. Agriculture is a fundamental sector, and China’s modernization cannot be achieved without agricultural modernization, he said. Revitalization of agriculture should rely on science and technology as well as talent, he said.

Xi also highlighted the importance of improving soil quality, which he said cannot be allowed to degrade. Green development should also be sustainable, and agricultural production should not focus only on short-term benefits.