Chinese leaders: Crisis also means opportunity

Premier Wen Jiabao said maintaining steady and relatively fast economic development amid the global financial crisis should be the focus of local governments.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (2nd R) attends the panel  discussion of deputies to the Second Session of the 11th  National People's Congress (NPC) from central China's Hubei  Province, in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2009.  (Xinhua/Fan Rujun)

The task can affect the overall development of the national economy and society, the people's interests, and the long-term development of the country's modernization drive, said Wen when joining NPC deputies from the central Hubei Province.

 Governments at all levels should incorporate improving people's well-being into the efforts on maintaining economic growth to benefit the people and promote harmony and stability of society, Wen said.

He also urged local governments to take the opportunity to enhance their capabilities in dealing with complicated situations, keeping close contact with the public and implementing policies.

Governments should also improve their credibility among the people, Wen said.