Officials and economists said the outlook for China's economy this year looks even brighter than in 2003, even though pressure from employment and inflation may need closer government attention.

　　National Development and Reform Commission Minister Ma Kai predicted a rise in gross domestic product (GDP) of 7 percent in 2004, citing a favorable domestic and international economic situation.

　　The Asian Development Bank, which forecasts a 7.9 percent growth for the Chinese economy in 2004, said China is expected to play an even more important role in providing the impetus for growth in the entire East Asian region.

　　Cao Yuanzheng, chief economist of Bank of China International, said the Chinese economy has entered a new cycle of fast growth that will last until the beginning of 2005.

　　(China Daily)