While deliberating the government's work report with Shanghai lawmakers in a group discussion, Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping said the city should play a leading role in the country's efforts to transform the pattern of economic development.

The transformation is an "urgent need "for implementing the scientific outlook on development and building a harmonious society, Xi said.

He called for the city to hold a successful, clean and thrifty World Expo with the strength of all its residents and with the wisdom of people from all over the country and world.

Source: Xinhua