Premier Li Keqiang said on Thursday the government will support the economy while preventing inflation.

The premier was quoted by CCTV as saying during a meeting with economic experts and entrepreneurs that the mainland economy was hit hard in the second quarter by factors that exceeded expectations, but it steadied and recovered in June.

"We will not only stabilise growth but also prevent inflation, and pay attention to preventing imported inflation," Li was quoted as saying. "The foundation of economic recovery is not solid."

The premier also stressed the need to protect jobs and keep foreign investments steady, among other things.

Beijing will release its second-quarter GDP figures on Friday. (Agencies)