BEIJING, Jan. 13 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with Marcia McNutt, editor-in-chief of U.S. journal Science, here on Monday.

Li said he hoped the journal would continue to help China's scientific and technological progress, promote research on basic science, disseminate the voice of China's scientific community to the world, and increase exchanges of scientific achievements.

He added that the development of science and technology is of vital importance to the quality and efficiency of China's economy. Scientific and technological innovation also played a positive role in helping China achieve good and steady economic growth last year.

China will promote innovation and economic and social development, Li said.

McNutt congratulated China for the successful landing of the Chang'e-3 lunar probe, and wished the country to make greater achievements in aerospace and space exploration.

She spoke highly of China's efforts to use science and technology to promote its economic development, improve people's well-being and cope with global challenges such as climate change and environmental pollution.