Some local governments have infringed upon the legitimate rights and interests of the people, and social conflicts have subsequently occurred, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said Tuesday.

The premier noted that more problems and conflicts have appeared in the process of land requisition by the government, the demolition of old houses and relevant resettlement and corporate restructuring in recent years when China has experienced fast economic growth.

The premier called on governments and institutions at all levels to properly deal with such conflicts and protect the legal rights and interests of the people.

In addition, education should be reinforced to guide the people to express their requests through legal channels and lawful means, Wen said.

The premier reaffirmed that every citizen of China enjoys the freedom of speech and publication, and that such a right must be realized in line with the law.

Wen made the remarks while meeting with the press following the closing of the annual session of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature.

(Xinhua News Agency March 14, 2006)