"On economic matters, he has demonstrated a keen understanding of complex theory. More recently, he has been a vocal advocate for economic restructuring and the importance of a level playing field for private business."

"Li Keqiang said he would open the economy to market forces and strip power from the State in an effort to help China grow by 7.5 percent a year until 2020."

"Addressing his first news conference after taking over as premier, Li Keqiang sought to allay concerns about the slow growth of China's economy as well as apprehensions about China's rise as a global power."

"Li's English skills say more about the man who will run the world's second-largest economy than just an ability to chat with US chief executives and European prime ministers - they were learned as part of a surprisingly liberal university education."

"He (Li) takes charge as China's breakneck growth has steadily slowed and the need looms to rebalance away from investment and exports and toward domestic consumption. In his position as one of Wen's vice-premiers, observers praised him for helping China navigate the global financial crisis and pushing forward efforts to restructure the economy."