Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao has underscored the importance of progress in the science, education, culture, health and sports fields.

"A country's prosperity not only lies in its economic development, but also its social progress," Wen said at a seminar at the State Council, or Cabinet, on Jan. 25.

The seminar was held to seek opinions on drafts of the government work report and the country's economic and social development blueprint for the next five years

"The development in science, education, culture, health and sports has a great bearing on the people's welfare and the country's future. It has a lasting impact," he said.

Representatives from science, education, health, culture and sports circles were invited to give their suggestions on the two documents at the seminar.

The drafts of the 12th five-year program, or the national development plan for 2011 to 2015, and the government work report will be delivered for review at the plenary session of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's national legislature, in March.

Participants at the seminar agreed that social development had taken up an increasing proportion of the government work report in the past years, and it was also highlighted in the draft 12th five-year program, according to a State Council statement.

They also voiced their suggestions based on their expertise or their own experiences.

Most suggestions focused on China's vocational and rural education, scientific and technological innovation, public cultural service in communities and villages, the film and publishing industries, as well as medical reform.