Premier urges new drive to spur growth

Premier Li Keqiang has called for intensified efforts and stronger support to turn the manufacturing sector into a new driving force for economic growth.

The appeal came as he warned against the fallout from sluggish industrial growth in the world's second-largest economy.

"We should really have a sense of urgency ... as it is the outstanding problem for us to address at present, "Li told dozens of ministers from central government departments and eight provincial-level heads.