Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has stressed the need to boost sci-tech innovation, ensure workplace safety and advance the reform of China's state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

Zhang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the instruction during an inspection tour in east China's Shandong Province between January 13 and 15.

During his visits to an array of technology, engineering and chemical companies in the cities of Jinan and Yantai, Zhang said these companies should encourage sci-tech innovation and optimize their industrial structures to support national strategies aimed at securing sci-tech independence, stabilizing industrial and supply chains, and ensuring energy security.

Zhang added that the SOEs must expedite the implementation of reform measures, and urged firms to redouble efforts in improving vitality and bolstering their core business.

While inspecting a local fire station and a food and medicine testing center, Zhang called on safety authorities to bolster vocational training and safety supervision. He also emphasized the importance of rooting out safety hazards and sharpening emergency response capabilities.