BEIJING, March 9 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiangwas invited on Sunday by female lawmakers, who were in Beijing for an annual session of the National People's Congress, for a group photo to mark International Women's Day.

At a panel discussion of deputies from Sichuan Province attended by Li, Zhao Ping made a request.

"I have a proposal from all female deputies of the panel. Today is International Women's Day. We hope Premier Li could have a group photo with us," said Zhao, herself a deputy.

"Sure, sure," replied Li, who extended greetings to women.

"Women hold up half the sky and you should believe that your male counterparts, holders of the other half of the sky, will move forward hand-in-hand with you," said Li.