"China is a developing country with a population of 1.3 billion, which demands us to keep the economy at an appropriate growth rate to confront the employment pressure," he said at a press conference following the conclusion of the annual session of the National People's Congress, the top legislature.

Wen said the next five years is "a crucial stage for China to build a moderately prosperous society" with the existence of both opportunities and difficulties.

China will work to ensure that economy grows at a fast yet steady pace and to hold down inflation during the period, he added.

He pledged more investment in agriculture to ensure steady increase in the output of grains and agricultural products.

Source: By Government of China