Chinese cabinet expresses confidence in economy

BEIJING - The State Council, China's cabinet, said on Wednesday that the country has the confidence and condition to realize its major economic and social development targets this year.

"Positive signs have been increasing in the last two months and structural readjustment has been accelerated," said a statement released after an executive meeting of the State Council presided over by Premier Li Keqiang.

"China's fiscal and monetary policies have been taking effect, while both development momentum and risk prevention capabilities have been strengthened," the statement said.

The State Council demanded that policies, reform measures and projects be implemented to ensure economic growth remains in a proper range, as they will promote quality growth and upgrading.

The cabinet will also kick off inspections on local railways, roads and water projects so that they are fas tracked, the statement said.

The cabinet decided that more than 250 billion yuan ($41 billion) in misused or dormant funds should be reclaimed by fiscal bodies, and the money should be invested in underfunded areas, according to the statement.

Regarding public fund irregularities, which were exposed by a budget implementation audit for 2014, the State Council demanded corrective measures to enhance efficiency and security of public funds.

During Wednesday's meeting, the State Council also decided to improve the student loan program to ensure more students from underprivileged backgrounds can access education.

The maximum term of lending agreements for university students will be extended to 20 years from 14 years.

Interest on the loans will be fully covered by the state during the students' college period, and they may apply for deducted interest repayments should they pursue post-graduate studies.