Necessary transformation of the government's functions will require courage and determination to push forward reform

Besides positively affirming the progress achieved by reform and opening-up in the past three decades, Premier Li Keqiang has said the reform is now entering a crucial stage, which means there will be more difficulties ahead.

Li said administrative reform is not merely a reduction in the size of government, but reform that prioritizes the transformation of its functions. He has called for decentralizing power over the market, society and local authorities by decreasing government intervention.