The 10th National Women's Congress concluded in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Friday, calling on China's women and women's organizations at all levels to make more contributions to the country's development.

The congress passed a working report delivered by the Ninth Executive Council of All-China Women's Federation (ACWF) and an amendment to the federation's constitution.

The Tenth National Women's Congress is lowered the curtain in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, October 31, 2008. [Xinhua]

State Councilor Liu Yandong conveyed congratulations to the successful conclusion of the congress on behalf of the State Council, urging enhanced policies to promote gender equality and ensure that women could have equal opportunities in politics, economy, education and other aspects.

The newly elected chairwoman of the ACWF Chen Zhili said at the closing ceremony of the congress that women's undertaking is a long-term endeavor and she encouraged more female officials to be engaged in the undertaking.

Delegates are seen during the meeting of the Tenth National Women's Congress in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, October 31, 2008. The Tenth National Women's Congress was lowered the curtain Friday. [Xinhua]

"We should pay more attention to women's welfare and speak on their behalf," Chen said. "We should make breakthroughs in tackling practical difficulties that women urgently need to resolve."

A total of 1,280 elected delegates and 169 specially invited delegates attended the congress. Each of China's 55 ethnic minorities had at least one delegate to the congress.

Female soldier delegates of the Tenth National Women's Congress pose for photos in front of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, October 31, 2008. The Tenth National Women's Congress was lowered the curtain Friday. [Xinhua]?

Delegates from ethnic groups of China of the Tenth National Women's Congress pose for photos in front of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, October 31, 2008. [Xinhua]

(Xinhua News Agency November 1, 2008)