Zhang Ping, Minister of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the country's top economic planner, attended a press conference during the first session of the 12th National People's Congress, the country's top legislature, in Beijing on March 6.

Zhang answered questions on China's economic and social development. He noted that the NDRC was coordinating related authorities to compile a layout this year to guide the country's urbanization drive to advance in an "orderly and healthy" way.

The minister expressed confidence in the overall economy in the long run with the country's 7.8-percent economic growth in 2012. "China currently remains in an important period of strategic opportunities... and I am sure the economy will sustain durable and healthy development," he said.

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- China to Issue Urbanization Layout in 2013

- NDRC Defends Macro-Economic Policy

Officials attend a press conference

Zhang Ping answers questions at a press conference

Zhang Ping is hailed by reporters