Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has stressed solid work in flood control and relief as well as restoration and reconstruction, while continuing efforts to consolidate the momentum of economic recovery amid reform and opening up.

Premier Li made the remarks during a recent inspection tour to the flood-hit Chongqing Municipality in southwest China. 

Visiting local enterprises, the premier also expressed optimism for China's economic growth, saying the government expects the creation of more than 9 million new urban jobs this year despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He stressed continuous efforts to reach the goal and deal with the uncertainties in economic development. 

He said that accelerating the comprehensive resumption of the service industry and expanding consumption is essential to promoting economic recovery. "Under the normalized epidemic prevention and control, policies should help enterprises overcome difficulties, promote the normal operation of service industries, like tourism, and unleash consumption potential."

Premier Li also affirmed the mass entrepreneurship and innovation campaign's role in promoting employment and luring professionals to serve enterprises.

It is necessary to not only reduce taxes and fees but also further lower the threshold to stimulate the vitality of market entities, said Li, noting that reforms to delegate power, improve regulations and upgrade services are aimed at benefiting people.

He also encouraged the western region to actively undertake the transfer of industries and climb to the middle- and high-end of the industrial chain, achieving high-quality development.

More: Premier Li Keqiang pledges economic revival for flood-stricken Chongqing

(With input from Xinhua)