Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping visited three famous scientists Wednesday, extending festive greetings to them and expressing gratitude for their contributions to the nation's scientific work ahead of the Spring Festival.

Xi paid visits to neurologist Wang Zhongcheng, space scientist Sun Jiadong and agronomist Li Zhensheng on behalf of President Hu Jintao and the CPC Central Committee.

At their homes, he noted their opinions on the nation's strategy of building up its national strength with talented people.

Xi asked Communist Party of China (CPC) committees and governments at all levels to better serve all Chinese experts, whom he called the nation's "priceless assets."

"Officials should have a sentiment of love for talents," he said.

"Officials should listen to experts' suggestions open-mindedly and care for their work and life," to allow them to concentrate on their work that contributes to the nation and the people, he said.

The Spring Festival, or Chinese Lunar New Year, falls on Feb. 3 this year.