A worker labors at a silk products factory in Hai'an, Jiangsu province, March 8, 2021. [Photo/IC]

President Xi Jinping extended festive greetings and best wishes on Friday to the country's working people ahead of the International Workers' Day, which falls on Saturday.

Xi praised the country's masses of working people for rising up to overcome difficulties with hard work and dedication despite the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and other issues.

They have made important contributions for the development of the Communist Party of China and the country, he said.

Noting that happiness and greatness come from hard work, Xi called on the working people to carry on and promote the spirit of model workers, the value of work and the pursuit of fine workmanship.

He also underlined the importance of stimulating the enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity of the large number of working people and guaranteeing their legitimate rights and interests.