Chinese leaders join political advisory discussions, calling for concerted efforts to combat crisis

He called on all Chinese people to stand together and "bravely move forward" though difficulties are in sight.

Wu Bangguo (front R), member of the Standing Committee of  the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC)  Central Committee and also chairman of the Standing Committee  of the National People's Congress (NPC), meets with members  of the 11th National Committee of the Chinese People's  Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) from the CPC  during the panel discussion in Beijing, capital of China,  March 4, 2009. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

"This year is pivotal for the country to combat the financial crisis and maintain a steady and relatively rapid economic growth," Hu told political advisors from the China Association for Promoting Democracy and the China Democratic League, two non-communist parties.

"To ensure economic growth, people's well-being and social stability is of great importance to maintain a stable overall situation of reform and opening-up," Hu said.