China announces over 6% economic growth target

China's premier Li Keqiang announced a healthy growth target for the nation and unveiled plans to become a more self-reliant technology leader on Friday.

The ruling Communist Party was aiming for economic growth of "over 6%" as it rebounds from the coronavirus pandemic, Li said in a speech to China's ceremonial legislature.

"As the coronavirus continues to spread around the world, instability and uncertainty are mounting on the international landscape, and the global economy continues to face grave challenges," he added.

He also pointed out the government faces "formidable tasks" with domestic challenges in epidemic control, economic recovery, employment and financial risks.

Some 3,000 delegates gathered for the party's annual two-week meeting, the year's highest-profile political event, under intense security and anti-virus controls.

China became the only major country to grow last year, eking out a 2.3% expansion after the then-unprecedented step of shutting down most of its economy to fight the coronavirus.