The China Development Forum 2009 has opened in Beijing. In the context of the global economic crisis, this year's forum focuses on China's development and reform amid the turmoil. Officials and representatives from the business community are offering their views. And many say China is likely to take the lead in the economic recovery.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang addresses the opening ceremony of the China Development Forum 2009 in Beijing, capital of China, March 22, 2009. [Li Xueren/Xinhua]

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang delivered an opening speech at the forum Sunday. He said the basic trend of China's economic development has not changed, despite challenges brought about by the global financial crisis. He also stressed that the crisis will mean an adjustment of policies.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang said, "Currently, China's economic growth rate is still the fastest in the world. China is at a stage where its industrialization and urbanization is speeding up. The prospects for the domestic market are good.The Chinese economy has great room for development.And the Chinese government's series of accumulative macro-policies have yielded and will continue to yield positive effects. We have confidence and also the right conditions, and we are capable of maintaining China's economic stability."

Some participants say that even though China is facing unprecedented challenges, it will likely be the first economy in the world to regain its footing.

The President of the HSBC Group, Stephen Green, says the international financial crisis is continuing to worsen. But he points out that the global economy won't reverse the economic trend that has formed over the past 20 years.

Green also says the center of the global economy has been transferring to emerging countries, especially to Asia. And China is a strong country in the region, aiming to achieve an 8-percent GDP growth in 2009.

Participants at the forum are also searching for ways to deal with the challenges brought about by the global recession.

The China Development Forum has been held for ten years. This year's annual meeting will conclude on Monday.

(CCTV March 23, 2009)