Hu calls for stable economic growth

BEIJING, Dec. 14 (UPI) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao, warning the country faced a tough job market next year, called for stable economic growth amid various challenges.

"Next year's employment market will be very serious, affected by the international financial crisis," Hu said during a weekend visit to Liaoning Province, the center of China's heavy industries in the northeast, the state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

China faces economic challenges including falling growth rate and declining global demand for its exports as a result of the global financial turmoil.

"Our top economic target next year is to maintain a stable and healthy growth," Hu said at a meeting with the provincial officials. "We should be clear about the serious challenges and difficulties from home and abroad but also realize the great opportunities and favorable conditions in it."

China has announced a $586 billion economic stimulus package for the next two years.

Hu said the country planned to do several things including implementing macroeconomic policies to boost economic restructuring, enhancing capacities for independent innovations and protecting the environment.