BEIJING, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao on Friday called on young people to fortify their conviction in socialism and make contributions to economic and social development.

Young Chinese should firmly adhere to the road of socialism with Chinese characteristics and have the ideal of realizing the Chinese dream, Li said at the second plenary session of the 17th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Youth League (CCYL) in Beijing.

Li urged the CCYL to promote education on socialism with Chinese characteristics among young people and help them build confidence in the country, society and their own lives.

Chinese youths should foster the spirit of hard work and plain living, innovation, creativity and cultivating the virtue of dedication and mutual help, according to the vice president.

He also called on young people to seize the opportunity of reform to start businesses, bring forth new ideas and strive for excellence, and contribute to the country's comprehensive reforms.