Chinese officials voice faith in economy, keep interest rates steady as forecasts darken

[Collection]After three years of disruptions from the coronavirus pandemic, China's economy is still affected by both domestic and global factors, and "economic recovery will inevitably be a process of wave-like development and tortuous progress," Cong Liang, vice chairman of China's chief planning agency, said. In a speech published last month, President Xi Jinping said: "We must maintain historic patience and insist on making steady, step-by-step progress," in guiding the economy.