"The world economy is gradually reheating in an unbalanced manner and faces uncertainty, as commodity prices rose sharply and many countries reported sovereign debt crises," he said.
The severe drought in southwest China and the rapid price increase of industrial products were challenges to achieving 8 percent annual growth, he said.
"Although the task is daunting and the difficulties are still there, 8 percent growth could be realized this year," he said.
In response to questions about the continuation of the stimulus package, Li said the government would keep the economic policy stable and consistent as problems and difficulties remain.
"We will also make policy-setting more flexible and targeted according to developments, such as the increasing cost pressures for many businesses," he said.
The proactive fiscal policy and moderately easy monetary policy would continue, he said.
