BEIJING - President Xi Jinping has urged officials and public figures to lead by example and promote good values among Chinese citizens, especially the younger generation.

Xi made the remarks Saturday while meeting with representatives from cities, towns, villages and units honored by the Central Commission for Guiding Ethic and Cultural Progress.

"Society is witnessing a collision of thoughts, ideas and ever-changing new technology. We should carefully analyze and take advantage of the trend to ensure that the moral and cultural drive is full of energy," Xi said.

Xi stressed that a balance should be struck between material progress and the progress of morals and culture, and the later should be integrated into all aspects of society.

Xi called for more efforts to promote social, professional, family and individual ethics while championing the outstanding of traditional culture.

"The Chinese cultural genes should be planted in the minds of the young."

Also on Saturday, Liu Yunshan, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attended a meeting to bestow honors and certificates on those honored by the Central Commission for Guiding Ethic and Cultural Progress.

During his speech, Liu stressed that families should play a key role in spreading good values via parenting.