Wen: China faces risk of drastic economic fluctuation

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-03-18 11:25

China faces the potential risk of drastic economic fluctuation, while tackling the biggest challenges of soaring prices and mounting inflationary pressure, Premier Wen Jiabao said on Tuesday.

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"We need to blaze a trail in between," he said at a press conference after the closing meeting of the First Session of the 11th National People's Congress.

Wen, who was reappointed premier on Sunday, said his government will ensure rapid yet stable economic development and at the same time to effectively hold down inflation and address problems of "unstable, uncoordinated and unsustainable" development.

Secondly, he said the Chinese government needs the courage and determination to further emancipate mind in order to make new breakthroughs in the reforms of the economic and political systems.

Thirdly, he said it's important for his government to strengthen social justice and equity, which means to respect everyone, protect the lawful rights and interests of all, and ensure everyone enjoys equal opportunities for development.

"If the development of economy and improvement of the people's livelihood are the bounding duties of the government, then the promotion of social justice and equity is the conscience of the government."

The premier also stressed cultural advancement and higher ethical standards in China, including higher credibility, integrity, tolerance, fraternity and morality.

"To ensure this country will become stronger and more prosperous, to build a society of equity and justice, to ensure the people live a happy life, our children can go to school and our nation is duly respected in the international community, I'm willing to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to this cause," he said.

Vice Premiers Li Keqiang, Hui Liangyu, Zhang Dejiang and Wang Qishan were also present at the press conference at the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing.


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