BEIJING, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday asked overseas Chinese to contribute more to the country's development, and join in exchanges with other countries.

Li was speaking with delegates to the Eighth World Conference of Overseas Chinese Friendship Associations, extending greetings to more than 60 million compatriots overseas.

Overseas Chinese have a strong sense of the culture and traditions of the motherland, and display the Chinese virtues of diligence, intelligence and inclusiveness in their achievements in other countries, Li said.

The premier told the delegates that although China has become the world's second largest economy in terms of GDP, there is still a long way to go on the road toward modernization.

Li urged delegates to act as bonds between China and other countries, and work for world peace, opening up and development.

He also encouraged them to invest in the country.

The premier expressed the hope that overseas compatriots would abide by local laws and customs while integrating themselves into their host countries' economies and social affairs.

Over 700 leaders of overseas Chinese organizations attended the conference, co-sponsored by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council and the China Overseas Exchange Association.