Road Map for Social, Economic Development Unfolded

Income divide wider

China achieved a 10.6 percent annual rise in per capita GDP since 2006. However, Wen admitted the income divide has become wider and a development gap remains between urban and rural areas and between regions.

While acknowledging the challenges, Wen said the government must "work tirelessly and painstakingly to solve these problems more quickly to the satisfaction of the people".

The road ahead will not be smooth, say some experts.

"The Chinese leadership faces multiple constraints, such as employment challenges and resistance from regional and industry interests groups," Ren said.