China sets 2017 GDP growth target at around 6.5%

China has set its GDP growth target at around 6.5 per cent for 2017, compared with a target range of 6.5-7 per cent for 2016, according to a government work report available to the media on Sunday.

"[China will] pursue better results in actual economic work," Xinhua news agency quoted the report as saying. The report will be delivered by Premier Li Keqiang at the opening ceremony of the annual session of China's top legislature, the National People's Congress.

The projected target is in line with both economic principles and realities, the report reads, adding that it will help stabilise market expectations and facilitate the country's structural adjustments.

It will also contribute to achieving the goal of finishing the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

"An important reason for stressing the need to maintain steady growth is to ensure employment and improve people's lives," the report says.

--IANS

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