BEIJING - China on Wednesday hosted a high-profile ceremony to honor the nation's "role model" women, one day ahead of the International Women's Day.

Wang Zhaoguo, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, bid festival greetings to women from all walks of life when meeting with representatives of the "role model" women.

Wang said that women have been a great force in promoting the nation's development and social progress, and they have played indispensable roles in economic development and social reforms since the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Wang urged women across the nation to learn from these role models to hold up "half of the sky," and make greater contributions to building a moderately prosperous society and realizing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Chen Zhili, chairwoman of the All-China Women's Federation, called upon women's federations at all levels to better protect the lawful rights and interests of women and children.

State Councilor Liu Yandong also attended the ceremony.