China's new premier seeks to restore confidence in the economy
China's new premier, Li Qiang, has promised to treat private-sector companies equally with state-owned ones and to respect the property rights and other interests of entrepreneurs. He also said that China welcomed investment and would keep improving its business climate, including by protecting the property rights of companies and the interests of entrepreneurs. Li is tasked with reviving the world's second-largest economy after three years of COVID curbs. He faces challenges including weak confidence among consumers and private industry, sluggish demand for exports and worsening relations with the United States.