Chinese premier urges writers, artists to speak the truth

"Chinese writers and artists should reflect reality in society and encourage people to seek the truth," Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao told delegates of Chinese art and literature organizations in Beijing on Monday.

"Developing Chinese literature and promoting the cultural qualities of the Chinese people to help boost economic and social development is a crucial task," said Wen.

He said academic freedom was guaranteed and writers and artists should emancipate their minds and explore diverse styles.

He also urged writers and artists to have a strong sense of social responsibility and that their works should reflect people's life, social progress and promote social harmony.

The ongoing meeting -- the Eighth Congress of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles (CFLAC) and the Seventh Congress of the Chinese Writers Association (CWS)-- has attracted more than 2,500 artists and writers from all over China.

Culture Minister Sun Jiazheng was elected on Sunday as new president of the CFLAC and female writer Tie Ning was elected new president of the CWS.

Source: Xinhua