BEIJING - China's economy is running within a reasonable range with the effects of reform and new growth momentums coming into play, Chinese premier Li Keqiang said on Wednesday.

Downward economic pressure remains remarkable both globally and domestically, said Li, while chairing a State Council departmental meeting.

"We should be confident on the fundamentals of China's long-term growth and take into full consideration difficulties and challenges," he said, adding that China will continue to expand employment, raise incomes, improve the environment and enhance quality and efficiency.

Current macro policies and controls will continue, according to the premier.

Li pointed out six areas of State Council policy which require special attention: water conservation and environmental protection; increasing consumption; structural reform with more supports to agriculture, small enterprises and new businesses; fiscal and monetary policies; and opening-up.