BEIJING, June 6 -- Acknowledging downward pressure on the economy, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Wednesday urged central and local authorities to actively and fully implement reform policies.
"To achieve the development goals for 2014, we should better mobilize efforts from both the central and local authorities," Li said at an economic conference.
While noting China's economic growth, employment and inflation are all within a proper range, Li said risks and challenges are not to be overlooked as downward pressure remains "relatively high".
He stressed that development remains the major task, and urged authorities to implement policies already in place and make targeted moves to address new problems.
To ensure policies are properly carried out, the State Council will start a comprehensive inspection, and those found neglectful of their duty will be held responsible, Li said.
China's economy grew at its weakest pace in 18 months in the first quarter, expanding by 7.4 percent, lower than the 7.5 percent target, but there are signs that the economy may be gaining strength. Growth in the manufacturing sector continued to accelerate in May, hitting a five-month high that pointed to a stabilizing economy.
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