Premier urges deeper reforms, new engines

BEIJING, Oct. 15 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqianghas stressed deepening reforms and fostering new growth impetus to stabilize the economy.

He made the remarks Tuesday at a meeting attended by the heads of municipalities of Tianjin and Shanghai, provinces of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Anhui, Hubei and Yunnan, as well as Guangxi Autonomous Region.

The mayors and governors briefed on local economic situations, saying that central reforms and regulations have been mitigating the impact of a slowing economy, and more efforts are needed to stabilize the economy.

The premier said China's economy is in the process of a shift from traditional growth methods to new engines, while the weakening old impetus intensified the downward pressure and new impetus is emerging, which needs nationwide confidence and persistence to realize the growth target.

Combining the strategies of mass startups, Internet Plus and Made in China 2025 will accelerate industrial upgrades. Expanding supplies and new industries will boost structural adjustment.

People-oriented urbanization and agricultural modernization shall be coordinated, and make the best of China's economic potential to stimulate investment and consumption.

He urged faster projects in water conservation, railways in central and west China, renovation of housing and urban underground pipelines, and further opening up with free trade areas.

Li stressed the initiatives of all-level governments, enterprises and common people, saying more rights will be given in local policymaking, capital management and pilot programs.

Reform of state-owned enterprises and support for small businesses will be continued with better incentive mechanisms.

Mapping out polices in advance is important in complicated circumstance, and all the officials should fulfill their responsibilities, Li added.