BEIJING - President Xi Jinping, who is in Uzbekistan for a state visit, extended festive greetings to China's more than 14 million teachers on Monday ahead of the Teachers' Day, on Sept 10.

In a letter addressing all teachers, Xi encouraged them to contribute more to develop the educational sector into a modern system with Chinese characteristics and world class quality.

He called on teachers to keep learning, improve teaching quality, embrace innovation and serve as exemplary models for their students.

He also urged authorities at all levels to improve teachers' quality and benefits, safeguard their interests, care for their health, and encourage excellent talents to take teaching as a lifelong career.