BEIJING, Jan. 24 -- Liu Qibao, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, has called on China's think tanks to strengthen professionalism to serve the country's reform and development.

Liu, who is also head of the publicity department of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks while meeting with representatives from the national council of Chinese think tanks on Friday.

Liu said think tanks must carry out research in line with the principles advocated by the central authorities and provide constructive suggestions to top decision makers.

China's think tanks should put the needs of the country and the people first and yield results for national development, Liu said.

Liu also urged China's think tanks to deepen research cooperation with international established counterparts and promote mutual understanding and trust.

China's think tanks should be of high quality and competent in the world arena, Liu said, adding they should play a bigger role in increasing China's say in international issues.