Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter on Tuesday to the 48th WorldSkills Competition.

Xi noted that a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation is advancing rapidly, exerting a profound impact on global skills development.

Closely aligned with the needs of industries, the WorldSkills Competition provides a useful platform for skilled professionals from various countries to hone their skills and learn from each other, Xi said.

Xi stressed that China will take the opportunity of hosting this year's competition to encourage and guide more workers, especially young people, to pursue a path to success through skills.

"China is willing to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with all parties, promote the development of the WorldSkills movement, and better contribute to global economic growth and the improvement of people's well-being," Xi said.

The 48th WorldSkills Competition opened in Shanghai the same day under the theme "Master Skills Change Your Future."

Hosted by WorldSkills International and jointly organized by China's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security and the Shanghai Municipal People's Government, the competition will also feature the WorldSkills Conference and WorldSkills Expo.