China premier says 7% growth goal was never cast in stone
Economic difficulties ahead for country should not be underestimated, adds Li Keqiang
Beijing
CHINA has never said the economy must grow 7 per cent this year, Premier Li Keqiang said in comments reported by the government ahead of a key meeting this week that will set economic and social targets for the next five years.
Mr Li's comments coincide with remarks by a top central bank official, who said on Saturday that China would be able to keep annual economic growth at around 6-7 per cent over that period.
The statements come at a time of growing con…
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