Chinese President Hu Jintao encouraged college students to help advance the country's modernization drive on the eve of Youth Day, on May 4, calling on them to "nourish lofty ambitions."

Replying to a letter from students and teachers of the China Agricultural University, Hu said he hoped they could nourish lofty ambitions and contribute to the country's endeavor to solve issues concerning agriculture, farmers and rural areas.

He said that these issues are on the top agenda of the central authorities, and the modernization of agriculture is a major task in the country's overall plan to achieve modernization.