BEIJING - Members and officials of the Communist Party of China (CPC) have been told to strengthen studies and practice of China's Scientific Outlook on Development theory.

The instructions were carried in a statement released after a Monday meeting of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, which was presided over by CPC leader Xi Jinping.

The meeting reviewed the Guideline on the Study of the Scientific Outlook on Development and reached a decision to release the document among the whole of the Party.

According to the statement, the guideline expatiates on the meaning, scientific connotations and spiritual essence of the Scientific Outlook on Development. It also lays down basic requirements for the implementation of the theory.

The Scientific Outlook on Development was put forward in 2003 at the Third Plenary Session of the 16th CPC Central Committee to facilitate overall, coordinated and sustainable development.

The statement said that the guideline provides crucial references for all CPC members, officials and the people to study and grasp the theory while pointing out its inner connections with Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thoughts of Three Represents.

According to the statement, the Scientific Outlook on Development should be studied alongside Marxism-Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought, Deng Xiaoping Theory and the Three Represents. It should also incorporate study of the history of the CPC and the country as well as major decisions and arrangements made by the central authorities.

The statement stressed promoting economic and social development, people-oriented standpoints, sustainable development and overall planning taking all factors into consideration as key principles that should be adapted by students during study.

CPC members and officials were urged to associate the study with their own work and local realities, with a special focus on researching and solving major issues in reform and development as well as people's urgent needs in life and work.