Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks to staff members during his visit to BOE Technology Group Co, Ltd. in Southwest China's Chongqing municipality, Jan 4, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

CHONGQING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged officials to work in earnest, have courage to tell the truth and never abuse power in exchange for personal gains.

Xi made the remarks during his first inspection tour of 2016 in southwest China's Chongqing municipality from Monday to Wednesday.

Leading cadres at all levels constitute the backbone of the Communist Party of China's (CPC) governance force and should take the lead in implementing the "three stricts and three earnests" requirement, the President said.

The "three stricts and three earnests" is a series of requirements for officials to improve their lifestyles and work, urging them to be strict in morals, use of power and self-discipline, as we as honest in their work and behavior.

"Ideals and belief should not be regarded as slogans that officials just pay lip service to...Instead, they should be converted into strength that encourages officials to take action," Xi said.

Rigid implementation of discipline and rules not only requires a set of thorough, effective regulations, but also a process of obeying them hundred percent, he said.

The right exercise of power can be achieved through acting by law, Xi said, urging officials to always bear in mind the principle of acting in accordance with the law and never abuse power in exchange for personal gains.

The year of 2016 is a vital period for deepening reforms in all respects, the President said, calling on local authorities in Chongqing to fulfil reform tasks assigned by the central authority, as well as explore innovation.

"The priority, path, order and methods of reforms should be worked out to make sure the reforms precisely satisfy the demand of local development as well as people's expectation," Xi added.