BEIJING, Nov. 20 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang Friday called for intensified efforts to build up the country's capacity in polar exploration and active participation in international polar exploration projects.

    Li made the remarks on the 25th anniversary of China's launching first polar exploration mission. On Nov. 20, 1984, China sent its first team to the South Pole.

    Polar exploration missions concern the country's long-term interests and are of pragmatic significance to the research and counter-measures against climate change, Li said.

    Li urged people working in the field to be down-to-earth, innovative and hardworking so as to make contributions to global sustainable development.