Premier Li Keqiang shakes hands with a truck driver while visiting Hongqi village, Fuyuan county in Heilongjiang province, Nov 5, 2013. [Photo/China News Service]

Premier Li Keqiang said the development of modern agriculture relies on reform.

Li said the reform of agriculture should respect the innovation and willingness of farmers, and the most important purpose of reform is to ensure the well-being of farmers and improve their lifestyle.

Li made the remarks during a trip to Fuyuan county, Heilongjiang province, on Tuesday.

In Fuyuan, Li inspected cornfields, a farm machinery center and talked with tractor drivers. He encouraged them to strive to increase production.

Reform in China 30 years ago was initiated by the agricultural sector, he said.

"Now, standing on a new phase of social development, agricultural reform remains important."

Li said there might be various approaches toward ensuring the success of reform, and farmers should take the initiative to explore ways that can best fit local conditions.