Xi sees positive changes in China's economy

BEIJING - President Xi Jinping has spoken of positive changes and stronger momentum in China's economy, while calling for measures to implement supply-side structural reform and defuse major risks.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks at a symposium Friday attended by representatives of non-Communist parties and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, as well as non-party personages.

Commenting on the country's economic development in the first half of the year, Xi said the economy maintained steady growth with a positive outlook, deepened structural adjustment, and better-than-expected performance in major indicators.

The macro-economy is more stable, and people's lives are getting better, the president said.

He noted positive changes are taking place in the economy, saying the fundamentals of economic and social development are sound.

There are substantial changes in the relations between economic supply and demand, while companies' expectations and market confidence are improving gradually, Xi said.

The momentum of economic development is getting stronger in China, which plays a significant role in driving the global economic recovery, according to the president.

Meanwhile, Xi said China should stay sober-minded to properly address problems in its economy.

Authorities should "maintain strategic focus" and "do the right things at the right time," the president urged.

He called for moves to resolutely implement supply-side structural reform and defuse major risks in a proper manner, while stressing balance between maintaining economic stability and seeking progress.

Stability is the keynote, and progress should be pursued on the precondition of keeping overall stability, Xi said.

However, that does not mean authorities should stay in a state of inertia or seek stability in an aggressive or mechanical way, the president noted.

Instead, they should make a difference while walking a fine line with good timing, he said.

Xi thanked the representatives for their support in the country's policy making, and called on them to mobilize all parties and resources and jointly contribute their wisdom to the building of a moderately prosperous society.

Li Keqiang, Yu Zhengsheng, Liu Yunshan and Zhang Gaoli, who are members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, also attended the symposium.