Premier's cool hand impresses the media

By Zhu Zhe (China Daily)
Updated: 2009-03-14 09:05

With a steady gaze, Premier Wen Jiabao met the press on Friday in a grave affair that reflected the steadfast resolve of the country in tackling the financial crisis and other challenges.

China Daily reporter Zhu Zhe asks a question during Premier Wen Jiabao's press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Friday. [Xu Jingxing]

From the 4-trillion-yuan ($585 billion) stimulus package to better ties with Taiwan, Wen's "no-nonsense" approach to the issues of the day struck a chord with foreign reporters, who said the briefing following the closure of the National People's Congress annual session was "forthcoming".

"He answered questions truthfully and he spoke clearly about the way China is going forward," said John Bailey, China bureau chief for the South African Broadcasting Corporation.

More than 1,000 domestic and overseas journalists packed the conference room in the Great Hall of the People for the briefing, during which the 67-year-old premier fielded questions from 12 reporters over two hours, using deliberate gestures and answers.

"I thought he clarified the stimulus program. There had been a few misunderstandings; what was new in the program and what was spending already in the works. So that was useful," said Wall Street Journal's China editor Andrew Browne.

As with previous press meetings, Wen peppered his answers with Chinese phrases and anecdotes that often set reporters buzzing. And this year was no different, as he set the tone with a phrase that called for confidence, courage and strength in facing the financial difficulties - with an eye on a brighter future.

"Don't be sad that the spring has past, there will be a more glorious one next year," Wen said.