China eyes reform, innovation to drive less-developed areas

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has stressed the need for more efforts in reform and innovation to boost economic growth in the less-developed central and west China.

"China's central and western parts have ample wiggle room for the economy and can play an important role in accelerating old and new economic engines," Li said during an tour of Jiangxi Province.

Li said the areas should use technological improvement to overhaul industry and strengthen growth momentum.

During the three-day tour ending Wednesday, the premier visited high-tech firms, industrial parks, rural residences and flood control sites. Endi