Senior Chinese leader Li Changchun has visited journalists who are still working in quake-hit areas in Sichuan Province. Li also toured quake devastated areas.

Li Changchun (2nd L), member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China(CPC) Central Committee, views the photos with journalists as he visits the journalists who are working in the front line of the quake-hit southwest China's Sichuan Province on June 1, 2008. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

On Monday, Li Changchun visited the Mianyang Radio and Television Center to see journalists who are working there. He urged leaders at the center to ensure journalists' safety, while keeping the center in service.

Journalists with Mianyang Daily have been working around the clock in tents and a garage after their main building was badly damaged during the quake. Li Changchun was deeply touched by this and expressed his appreciation for their professional spirit.

Li also visited journalists from People's Daily, Xinhua News Agency, China National Radio and China Central Television. Li expressed deep gratitude for their professional achievements.

Li Changchun praised all the journalists' efforts to bring timely and comprehensive reports on quake relief work, and hoped they would take good care of themselves while carrying out their duties.

On the same day, Li Changchun also went to quake-hit Nanba town in Pingwu County by helicopter. He expressed gratitude for the soldiers and armed police who are racing against time to clear up the ruins. He also comforted local residents, promising the government will care for them and help them rebuild their hometown.

Li then visited students from Beichuan High School. They were studying at a temporary school. During the disaster, many teachers and students from the school joined the rescue effort. Li praised their courage and encouraged the children to concentrate on their studies.

Li finally arrived at Jinshan township in Luojiang County. He inspected a temporary settlement, asking survivors about basic living conditions, eating and drinking and children's study. He called on local authorities to comfort victims' relatives and the injured and help them get out of the difficult situation.

(CCTV June 3, 2008)