BEIJING (AP) — China's premier says the country should be able to meet its economic targets this year despite a slowdown in July growth.
Premier Wen Jiabao said industrial activity is improving and employment is stable. His comments during a visit Wednesday to eastern China were reported by the government's Xinhua News Agency.
"We have the conditions and capabilities, and will be sure to fulfill this year's economic and social development targets," Wen was quoted as saying.
The ruling Communist Party set a growth target of 7.5 percent for the year. Growth fell to 7.6 percent in the quarter ending in June. Private sector analysts expect full-year growth of about 8 percent.
Wen cautioned the economy was still unstable and said "economic hardships may continue for some time."
