'Time to face problems' as economy slows

Editor's Note: The official People's Daily newspaper has interviewed an "authoritative insider" who anonymously addressed pressing issues affecting the Chinese economy, while expressing confidence in growth prospects. In a Q&A, the insider advocated that China squarely face up to the economic problems and maintain a strategic focus in the process of restructuring.

Q: Economic growth has been slowing since the year started. What is your assessment of the current situation and outlook?

A: Overall, economic growth is in line with the targets set in the Government Work Report released earlier this year. China's economy is still functioning within a "reasonable range" and within expectations.