Premier Li Keqiang stressed on March 4 that China should realize the transformation and upgrade of the economy and promote the supply-side reform of agricultural industry.

He made the remarks while taking part in a panel discussion with political advisors from the economic and agricultural sectors at the ongoing annual session of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, the country’s top political advisory body.

As the Premier appeared, reporters competed to ask questions. He stopped to answer questions and proclaimed “We should have confidence in China’s economy!”

“I have been with this group for the fifth consecutive year,” the Premier said with a smile, adding that “Someone suggested I choose another group this time, while I prefer to consolidate the friendship with these ‘old friends’, and more importantly, the government still adheres to economic construction as the center and attaches great importance to the agriculture industry as the foundation of the economy.”

The development of a transformed and upgraded economy should integrate the primary, secondary and tertiary industries, and China should build a solid foundation for such an economy and promote it to a middle and higher level, the Premier said.

The Premier said administrative streamlining is an important way to stimulate supply side reform.

“Eliminating approvals means depriving power from officials. Canceling related fees means taking away their money, so it is very difficult. But for people’s benefit, we must promote the reform at all costs.”

China has 170 million people with higher education and professional skills who are the strongest foundation for the country’s economic growth, according to Premier Li.

“We should make the best use of our scientific research personnel, who are the keys for innovation-driven development,” the Premier said.

China should further protect intellectual property rights to maintain a fair market environment. “Counterfeits in any form are not tolerated,” he added.

In regards to supply-side structural reform in agriculture, Premier Li stressed the importance of the development of modern agriculture and moderate scale management, to enhance quality and competitiveness of agricultural products and increase farmers’ income.