BEIJING - Modernizing agriculture, according to Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, is urgent for stable growth and sustainable development.

A huge mission, agricultural modernization relies on making use of the advantages of different regions, Li said in an article entitled "Accelerating Agricultural Modernization with Reform and Innovation as the Impetus."

The article, based on Li's speech on rural development in December, will appear in Monday's Qiushi - "Seeking Truth" - a magazine of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

While encouraging varied forms of agricultural operations on moderate scales, Li called for greater policy and financial support for agriculture in general.

According to Li, urbanization should stimulate rural businesses and increase farmers' incomes.