BEIJING, Nov. 23 (Xinhua) -- Top Chinese political advisor Yu Zhengsheng underscored the importance of preserving and developing Tibetan culture on Wednesday.

Yu, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), made the remarks while meeting with representatives of the third congress of the China Association for the Preservation and Development of Tibetan Culture, which was held Wednesday in Beijing.

He hailed the association's work in protecting and developing Tibetan culture, boosting communication and exchange among ethnic groups and participating in international communication and cooperation since it was founded.

Yu asked the association to safeguard national unity, strengthen ethnic solidarity and improve publicity over Tibet's development.

"Civil and social resources should be mobilized to contribute to Tibet's economic development, the well-being of its people and the prosperity of its culture," Yu noted.

New association leadership was also elected, with Pagbalha Geleg Namgyae, vice chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, becoming president of the association.