Chinese PM solicits expert opinions on economic growth

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday called on experts and entrepreneurs to make sustained contribution to help the government assess economic situation for better policy-making. Despite complicated and grim international and domestic situations, Chinese economy has shown signs of strength. Such positive results are partly attributed to the wisdom of experts as well as proactive efforts of entreprenuers to meet market changes, Li said at a work conference. China's gross domestic output (GDP) grew 7.7 percent in the first nine months, higher than the government's full-year target of 7.5 percent. The GDP growth in the third quarter soared to 7.8 percent from 7.5 percent in the second quarter, official data showed. As this year approaches to the end and the new year situation might remain complicated, the government must listen widely to views of all sectors to make scientific decisions, Li said. China still has ample room for reform, he said, adding reform is the solution to tackle problems affecting the development of the economy and society. China's reform has entered the "deep water area", and the government must forge ahead without hesitation because reform is conducive to the fundamental interest of the people as well as the healthy and sustainable development of the economy, he said. A prospect of long-term stable growth is important for enterprises, investors and society, he said, calling for experts and entrepreneurs to contribute their wisdom. The Third Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China Central Committee is to be held between Nov. 9 and 12, which is expected to unveil a comprehensive reform package.