CHINA

Two Sessions 2021

Report list

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets the press after annual legislative session

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets the media and takes questions from reporters after the conclusion of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC). The press conference is virtual due to the COVID-19 prevention and control requirements.
China opposes 'Taiwan independence,' foreign interference in cross-Strait affairs: premier

Photo: XinhuaBEIJING, March 11 (Xinhua) -- China will continue to promote peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and the countrys peaceful reunification, and oppose any form of separatist activities seeking "Taiwan independence" or foreign interference in cross-Strait affairs, Premier Li Keqiang said Thursday.
Chinese premier meets press after closing of annual NPC session

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang holds a virtual meeting with the press following the conclusion of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress, Beijing, China, March 11, 2021. /XinhuaChinese Premier Li Keqiang held a virtual meeting with the press at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing after the conclusion of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress on Thursday.Here are the highlights from the press conference:Employment Saying that China is still facing "great pressure in the job market" this year, Li stressed that employment remains the countrys policy priority.In addition to promoting current job measures, more flexible job channels will be opened up, he said.GDP targetOn Chinas 2021 GDP target of over 6 percent, the premier said that the number was "not set in stone" but to guide expectations.China is aiming for sustained and sound economic development in the long term, added Li.Chinas development China is still a developing country, and there is still a long way to go before it can achieve modernization, Li said.The fundamental purpose of Chinas development is to enable the Chinese people to lead a better life, and the countrys development will be a major contribution to world peace, stability, development and prosperity, he said.Fight against COVID-19On the coronavirus pandemic, Li said that like other countries, China hopes to get to the bottom of where the virus came from.China has maintained communication with the World Health Organization (WHO) and supported the WHO mission during its work in China concerning the origins of the virus, Li said, stressing that China has acted in a fact-based manner and with an open, transparent and cooperative approach.The premier also expressed firm confidence that humanity can win the battle against COVID-19, a common enemy of humankind.Hong KongThe decision by Chinas top legislature on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Sp...
More jobs to spur China's economic growth: premier

BEIJING, March 11 (Xinhua) -- An expansion in employment as a result of steady economic recovery will further promote sound growth of Chinas economy, Premier Li Keqiang said Thursday.Staff members work at a workshop of Skyworth in Guangzhou, south Chinas Guangdong Province, February 10, 2020. /XinhuaBEIJING, March 11 (Xinhua) -- An expansion in employment as a result of steady economic recovery will further promote sound growth of Chinas economy, Premier Li Keqiang said Thursday.Employment is the foundation of peoples well-being and development as well as a source of wealth, Li said at a press conference after the closing of the annual national legislative session in Beijing.China still faces mounting pressures in boosting employment this year, as about 14 million urban people will enter the labor market, including a record 9.09 million college graduates, and over 270 million migrant workers also need job opportunities, Li said.The country will continue with the job-first policy this year and take more measures to stabilize and boost employment, the premier said.China aims to create no less than 11 million new urban jobs in 2021, Li said.
Chinese lawmakers approve outline of five-year plan, objectives through 2035

BEIJING, March 11 (Xinhua) -- Chinas lawmakers on Thursday approved a development blueprint for the next five to 15 years at the closing meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress.
China's national legislature approves government work report

BEIJING, March 11 (Xinhua) -- Chinese lawmakers on Thursday approved a resolution on the government work report at the closing meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress, Chinas top legislature.
Basic education opportunities expand in Xinjiang, university vice-chief says

Gulpari Abdula, a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, China's top political advisory body, answers questions from media via online video, on March 10, 2021.Access to basic education has greatly improved in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region in recen
China's top political advisory body CPPCC concludes annual session

The fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) holds its closing meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
China's new five-year blueprint to unleash opportunities for world

The second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress is held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei) "China is the main global economic engine for recovery from the COVID-19 economic downturn. Therefo
China's new five-year blueprint paves way for 2060 carbon-neutrality

[Photo by Cai Zhengle/for China Daily] .BEIJING - China will take more measures to restructure its industry and energy mix in a greener way, and this will lay a solid foundation for peaking carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.Over the next five years and beyond,
Two sessions spotlight: Normalizing China-US relations needs statesmanship, vision and courage

We are living in a world of major unfolding changes. Professor Xie Tao, dean of the school of international relations and diplomacy at Beijing Foreign Studies University will share his ideas on how the pandemic is changing the world and China’s external relations.
Chinese premier to meet press on Thursday

BEIJING, March 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang will meet the press at the Great Hall of the People after the conclusion of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress on Thursday afternoon.Li will take questions from Chinese and foreign reporters via video link in consideration of epidemic prevention and control and public health protection.The press conference will be broadcast live by the China Media Group and on xinhuanet.com.
Public well-being goals reveal China's pursuit of common prosperity

Citizens purchase goods in preparation for the upcoming Spring Festival at a supermarket in Yanan, northwest Chinas Shaanxi Province, Feb. 9, 2021. (Photo/Xinhua)Targets and measures aimed at further improving peoples well-being have been unveiled in Chinas latest government work report and draft development blueprint, revealing the countrys pursuit of common prosperity.At the annual sessions of the top legislature and the top political advisory body, deputies deliberated the 2021 government work report and the draft outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for national economic and social development and the long-range objectives through the year 2035.The draft outline aims to improve the well-being of the people by boosting employment, actively responding to an aging population, and raising the average life expectancy by one year in the next five years. The per capita disposable income will also keep pace with GDP growth.Employment a priorityWhile containing COVID-19, the Chinese government has encouraged the resumption of work and production to boost employment and peoples well-being.The country reduced the burden on market entities by more than 2.6 trillion yuan (about 401 billion U.S. dollars) last year, including 1.7 trillion yuan in social insurance premium cuts and exemptions, the government work report read."It is with the government support that my business has survived," said Du Dungang, chairman of a snack company based in Qingdao, east Chinas Shandong Province.Dus company mainly exports its products but met with operational difficulties early last year when orders worth 11 million yuan were canceled due to the pandemic. The company was on the brink of bankruptcy when it received a bank loan of 10 million yuan with the governments help. It then managed to sell its stock to the domestic market.The survival of the business has kept more than 30 workers employed. Even in the toughest time when it ...
NPC committee deliberates draft amendments to NPC laws, decision on HK

Deputies to the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) attend the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th NPC at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021. (File photo: Xinhua)BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- The Constitution and Law Committee of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) on Monday deliberated draft amendments to the Organic Law of the NPC and the Rules of Procedure for the NPC, as well as a draft NPC decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).The documents are being reviewed at the ongoing fourth session of the 13th NPC.A statement issued after Mondays committee meeting said the draft amendments are relatively mature and the committee will submit a deliberation result report and draft decisions on revisions to the two documents to the sessions presidium, which will decide on submitting the draft decisions on revisions to NPC delegations for further deliberation.The statement also said members of the NPC Constitution and Law Committee consider content of the draft NPC decision on Hong Kong necessary and feasible. It is a new constitutional institutional arrangement to advance the development of a democratic political system suited to Hong Kongs realities.The committee has put forward a deliberation result report and a revised version of the draft decision. The sessions presidium will decide on submitting the revised version to NPC delegations for further deliberation.
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Ministers receive interview after 2nd plenary meeting of fourth session of 13th NPC

Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Wang Zhigang is interviewed via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Wang Zhigang arrives for an interview via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Wang Zhigang is interviewed via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Chinese Minister of Science and Technology Wang Zhigang (R) is interviewed via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao arrives for an interview via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Xiao Yaqing, Chinese minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), arrives for an interview via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao (R) is interviewed via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao is interviewed via video link after the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021.Xiao Yaqing, Chinese minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), is interviewed via video link after t...
Political advisors propose to set Teacher's Day on ancient educator Confucius' birthday

The Confucius Temple in Beijing Photo: IC .More than 50 Chinese political advisors have jointly proposed to set Teachers' Day on ancient educator and philosopher Confucius' birthday to mark the day's significance by endowing it with cultural and historical meaning.The joint proposal was initiated at
Live: Chinese ministers meet press after 2nd plenary meeting of NPC

Ministers meet the press and take questions after China's national legislature – the National People's Congress – holds its second plenary meeting.
Rule of law, social security, rural vitalization draw most public concern during "two sessions": survey

Rule of law, social security and rural vitalization are the top three topics of public concern for Chinese citizens during this years "two sessions", according to an online survey conducted by Peoples Daily Online among 5.2 million people between Feb. 4 and 28.The rule of law became the hottest topic among Chinese internet users for the first time in the survey, which has been conducted by Peoples Daily Online for the 20th time.The fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) opens at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 5, 2021. (Photo: Xinhua)According to this years survey, 66.3 percent of the respondents said what left the deepest impression on them was the promulgation and implementation of Chinas Civil Code. With regard to the newly-revised Law on the Protection of Minors, 53.4 percent of them were most concerned about the improvement of standards of kindergartens and schools.Social security, one of the top three topics of public concern for three consecutive years, ranked second on the list this year. Some 55.9 percent of the respondents showed great concern over the increase in basic pensions for retirees and the minimum basic old-age pension for rural and non-working urban residents, while 62.4 percent expressed concern over the cost of raising children after China fully adopted the two-child policy in 2016.The survey showed that Chinese people clearly paid attention to rural vitalization, which gained 3.13 million votes by netizens, or 60.2 percent of the respondents.Anti-corruption work, ecological protection, financial risks, education reform, housing, digital life, and social governance ranked fourth to tenth in terms of public attention.Among the respondents, 14.5 percent were below 18 years of age, 21.4 percent were aged between 18 and 29, 15.8 percent between 40 and 49, 9.4 percent between 50 and 59, and 6.2 percent above 60.The survey revealed that 32.7 percent of the r...
China rolls out legal measure package to ensure constitutional order in HKSAR: top legislator

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- The National Peoples Congress (NPC), Chinas top legislature, will make a decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) during its ongoing annual session, said top legislator Li Zhanshu.File Photo: XinhuaThe NPC Standing Committee will make revisions to the relevant law on the basis of the decision as part of a package of legal measures to ensure constitutional order and the rule of law in the HKSAR, Li said on Monday while delivering a work report of the NPC Standing Committee at the session.The NPC will continue to perform its legally mandated duties and provide legal safeguards for ensuring constitutional order in Hong Kong, countering forces seeking "Hong Kong independence," ensuring that patriots administer Hong Kong, and maintaining long-term prosperity and stability in the region, Li said.
China to accelerate legislation for opposing foreign sanctions, interference

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinas top legislature will accelerate legislation relating to external affairs, upgrading the legal tool kit for meeting challenges and guarding against risks in order to oppose foreign sanctions, interference, and long-arm jurisdiction, according to a report.The annual work report of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) Standing Committee was submitted Monday to the ongoing fourth session of the 13th NPC for deliberation.File Photo: CGTN
Law on safeguarding national security in HKSAR wins broad understanding, support: report

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinas top legislature, the National Peoples Congress (NPC), has briefed over 90 national parliaments on the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), winning broad understanding and support, according to a report.Hong Kong residents celebrate the passage of the Law of the Peoples Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) in Causeway Bay of south Chinas Hong Kong, June 30, 2020. (Photo: Xinhua)Following the laws adoption on June 30, 2020, on behalf of the NPC, heads of bilateral friendship groups sent 106 letters to the parliaments of 93 countries and the European Parliament to share relevant information and clarify Chinas stance, said the work report of the NPC Standing Committee submitted Monday to the ongoing annual legislative session for review.
China to revise Anti-Monopoly Law

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinas top legislature will revise the Anti-Monopoly Law this year, according to a work report.The annual work report of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) Standing Committee was submitted Monday to the ongoing fourth session of the 13th NPC for deliberation.File Photo: CGTN
China's national legislature starts 2nd plenary meeting of annual session

Photo: The second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) is held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2021. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- The fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC), Chinas top legislature, convened its second plenary meeting Monday.Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders -- Li Keqiang, Wang Yang, Wang Huning, Zhao Leji, Han Zheng and Wang Qishan -- attended the meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.Nearly 2,900 national lawmakers heard and reviewed the work reports of the NPC Standing Committee, the Supreme Peoples Court (SPC) and the Supreme Peoples Procuratorate (SPP).Li Zhanshu, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, delivered the work report of the committee to the meeting.In the past year, the NPC Standing Committee has effectively performed the duties and functions as the state organ of power, offering legal guarantee for advancing the implementation of major work plans, tackling major risks and challenges and safeguarding national security, Li said in the report.Since last years NPC annual session, the NPC Standing Committee has adopted nine laws, including the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and revised 13 laws, including the National Flag Law and the National Emblem Law, said the top legislator.The NPC Standing Committee has strengthened the implementation of the Constitution, stepped up legislation in key areas and conducted oversight of legal compliance and work performance in accordance with the law, according to Li.The main tasks for the coming year include working to ensure greater observance of the Constitution and enhance constitutionality reviews and strengthening legislative work in key areas, emerging areas and areas relating to external affairs, he said.Chief Justice Zhou Qiang delivered the SPC work report. The SPC accepte...
Foundation of rule of law lies in primary level: Xi

BEIJING, March 7 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping said Sunday that to comprehensively promote Chinas rule of law and advance the modernization of the countrys system and capacity of governance, the foundation of the work lies in the primary level.Chinese President Xi Jinping takes part in a deliberation with lawmakers from Qinghai Province, at the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2021. (Photo: Xinhua)Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when joining lawmakers from Qinghai Province in a deliberation during the countrys annual legislative session.Speaking after hearing a lawmakers report on advancing primary-level social governance, Xi called for consolidating the foundation and strengthening Party leadership at the primary level.He also stressed more public participation to help people understand, respect and observe the law.
Xi says pleased to hear rapid development of quake-hit Yushu

BEIJING, March 7 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Sunday said he has been very concerned about Yushu, a prefecture in northwest Chinas Qinghai Province hit by a strong earthquake about 11 years ago, and is pleased to hear its rapid development after the quake.Chinese President Xi Jinping takes part in a deliberation with lawmakers from Qinghai Province, at the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2021. (Photo: Xinhua)Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when he joined a deliberation with lawmakers from the Qinghai delegation at the annual session of the National Peoples Congress, or the top legislature, in Beijing."I have been paying attention to Yushus post-quake recovery all these years," Xi said, applauding local efforts to coordinate ecological protection, economic development and the improvement of peoples livelihood.Xi expressed the hope that Yushu would continue this path of development.On April 14, 2010, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Yushu, flattening the plateau town of Gyegu and killing more than 2,600 people.Xi went to Yushu after the quake to visit the disaster-hit local residents and inspected post-quake recovery efforts.
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China ready to work with US to return ties to right track: FM

China is ready to work with the United States to return bilateral relations to the right track of healthy and steady growth, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday.
Chinese cultural expert refutes lawmaker's proposal to establish day dedicated to traditional Chinese costume at the two sessions

Fans of hanfu, the traditional clothing of China's Han ethnic group, celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival on Sep 13, 2019 in Qingdao, E China's Shandong Province.A proposal to establish "Hanfu Day," a holiday focused on the traditional clothing of the ethnic Han Chinese , at the two sessions has sparke
FM urges India to meet China half-way in relationship

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attends a press conference on China's foreign policy and foreign relations via video link on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 7, 2021.China stan
China's poverty alleviation achievement is historic: IFAD director

The fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress opens at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 5, 2021. (Xinhua/Cai Yang) As national lawmakers and political advisors gather for China’s “two sessions”, the world is keeping a close eye on how this annual p
China providing COVID-19 vaccines to 35 African countries: FM

China has started to provide COVID-19 vaccines to 35 African countries and the African Union Commission, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday.China has so far provided close to 120 batches of emergency supplies to Africa and sent medical expert teams to 15 African countries to su
Implementing "patriots administering Hong Kong" legitimate, reasonable: FM

BEIJING, March 7 -- Improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and implementing the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" is constitutional, legitimate, just and reasonable, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Sunday. Enditem .
Deputy, lawmaker suggest establishing virus strain databases, speeding up vaccines against COVID-19 mutations

China should establish a national-level virus strain and gene sequences database and carry out pre-research on vaccines against threats posed by COVID-19 mutations, Chinese deputies and political advisors suggested, in order to ensure the country’s achievements against the epidemic are not in vain.V
Shanghai NPC deputies coincide in proposals on legislation on red relics

Chinese people from around the country make their way to the site where the first CPC National Congress was held in Shanghai in 1921 to learn about the Party's noble spirit on July 1, 2020.Three deputies to the National People's Congress from Shanghai, the birthplace of the Communist Party of China
Xi joins deliberation of Qinghai delegation at legislative session

BEIJING, March 7 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, on Sunday afternoon took part in a deliberation with lawmakers from Qinghai Province, at the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress, Chinas top legislature.
Premier puts emphasis on new growth engines

Premier Li Keqiang takes part in a panel discussion in Beijing with National Peoples Congress deputies from the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in Beijing on March 6, 2021. (Photo: Xinhua)Premier Li Keqiang has underlined the importance of harnessing the foundation of Chinas manufacturing sector and strengthening new growth engines to create more jobs and unleash the potential of domestic demand.Lis remarks came as he took part in a panel discussion in Beijing with National Peoples Congress deputies from the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region on Saturday morning.Guangxi elected Li as an NPC deputy for the region in 2018.He also joined a group discussion with some members of the National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference.The premier underscored that the country still faces a challenging domestic and external environment. He also highlighted the importance of coordinating efforts in COVID-19 containment and socioeconomic growth while implementing the new development philosophy and fostering a new development paradigm.Li reiterated the need to ensure stability on six fronts, including employment, the financial sector, foreign trade and investment. And he called for maintaining security in six key areas, including basic living needs, market entities operations, food and energy security, and stable industrial and supply chains.China must deepen reform, further stimulate market players vitality and promote high-level opening up, he said.He urged Guangxis authorities to seize opportunities arising from major national strategies and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and to improve its level of opening-up in coastal and border areas.He called for steps to promote green development and uphold the principle that lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets.The region must scale up research and development in industries with local characteristics, boost their competitiveness and incr...
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CPPCC members receive interview ahead of 2nd plenary meeting of 4th session of 13th CPPCC National Committee

Tang Jiangpeng, a member of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, gives an interview via video link ahead of the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 7, 202
Chinese premier stresses ensuring sustained, healthy economic, social development

BEIJING, March 6 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Saturday stressed enhancing confidence, meeting challenges head-on, and ensuring sustained and healthy economic and social development.File photo: XinhuaLi, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when joining lawmakers from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in a group deliberation on the government work report at the ongoing fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress, the national legislature.Efforts should be made to coordinate COVID-19 response and economic and social development as domestic and international situations are still grave this year, Li said.He called for an accurate understanding of the new development stage, full application of the new development philosophy, and creation of the new development paradigm to promote high-quality development and keep the economic operation within an appropriate range.The premier stressed efforts to deepen reform, further energize market entities, unleash potential of domestic demand, and advance high-level opening-up.He also urged actions in promoting green development, consolidating poverty alleviation results and advancing rural vitalization.
Full Text: Explanations on the draft decision of the National People's Congress on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

File photoA draft decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was submitted Friday to the fourth annual session of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) for deliberation.Wang Chen, vice chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, explained the draft to fellow lawmakers at the opening meeting of the session.Full text(Translation)Explanations on the Draft Decision of the National Peoples Congress On Improving the Electoral System of The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Presented by Wang ChenVice Chairman of the Standing Committee of The National Peoples CongressAt the Fourth Session of the 13th National Peoples Congress5 March 2021Deputies,Entrusted by the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress (NPC), I hereby make the following explanations about the Draft Decision of the National Peoples Congress on Improving the Electoral System of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR).I. The imperative and importance of improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong SARThe return of Hong Kong to the motherland put the region once again under the overall governance system of the country. The Constitution of the Peoples Republic of China and the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the Peoples Republic of China jointly form the constitutional basis of the Hong Kong SAR. The electoral system of the Hong Kong SAR, which includes the methods for the selection of the Chief Executive and for the formation of the Legislative Council, is an important part of the political structure of the Hong Kong SAR. The electoral system should conform to the policy of One Country, Two Systems, meet the realities in the Hong Kong SAR and serve to ensure "patriots administering Hong Kong". It should be conducive to safeguarding Chinas national sovereignty, security and development interests and help maintain the long-term prosperity and stability of H...
NPC deputy: 'Chain chief' system helps develop industrial clusters in E China's Hefei

By appointing chiefs to industrial chains, Hefei, the capital city of east China's Anhui province, cultivated a number of national-level clusters of strategic emerging industries, said a deputy to the National People's Congress from the city on Friday.Ling Yun is an NPC deputy and the mayor of Hefe
Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng met with members from Hong Kong delegation to CPPCC on Saturday morning

File Photo. Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng met members from the HKSAR delegation to the 13th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference this morning, people familiar with the matter told the Global Times.HK media reported that the senior Chinese official said the upcoming electoral reform i
Xi visits political advisors, joins discussion at annual session

BEIJING, March 6 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping on Saturday afternoon visited national political advisors from education, medical and health sectors attending a joint group meeting at the fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference.Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, joined them in the discussion and heard their comments and suggestions.
China should step up guard against mutant COVID-19 strains: political advisor

A staff member works in a facotry of an automobile company in Xian, northwest Chinas Shaanxi Province, Feb. 27, 2020. (File photo: Xinhua)BEIJING, March 5 (Xinhua) -- China should step up guard against mutant COVID-19 strains as the pandemic continues to rage worldwide, a national political advisor has said."We are still in the midst of a global pandemic, with the coronavirus rapidly mutating and evolving worldwide. Virus mutations may pose huge risks," said Wang Chen, a member of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and president of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College.Wang made the remarks on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee, the countrys top political advisory body, which opened in Beijing on Thursday.Noting that a science-based response is the fundamental way to control the pandemic, he said efforts should be made in various fields including early diagnosis and vaccine research and development.
Two-step approach mulled to improve HKSAR electoral system

File photo: AgenciesBEIJING, March 5 (Xinhua) -- A two-step approach, namely, "decision plus amendment" was proposed to improve the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), senior lawmaker Wang Chen said on Friday.Wang, vice chairman of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, made the remarks when explaining a draft decision on improving the electoral system of the HKSAR to national lawmakers.In the first step, the NPC, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Constitution, the Basic Law, and the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR, makes the decision on improving the electoral system of the HKSAR.In the second step, in accordance with the Constitution, the Basic Law, the Law on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR, and the NPC decision, the NPC Standing Committee amends "Annex I: Method for the Selection of the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" and "Annex II: Method for the Formation of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Its Voting Procedures" of the Basic Law, according to Wang.After the amendment of Annex I and Annex II at the state level is completed, the HKSAR will amend relevant local laws accordingly, Wang said.The draft decision was submitted for review to the lawmakers during the annual session of the NPC, which runs from March 5 to 11.
China to construct Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in active, prudent manner: draft outline

File photo: AgenciesBEIJING, March 5 (Xinhua) -- China will promote the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area in an active and prudent manner, according to the draft outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for national economic and social development and the long-range objectives through the year 2035, which was unveiled Friday.
China to explore immigration policy to attract foreign talents

File photo: AgenciesBEIJING, March 5 (Xinhua) -- China will explore the introduction of an immigration policy for foreign talents, according to the draft outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for national economic and social development and the long-range objectives through the year 2035, which was unveiled on Friday.
China to improve punitive damages system for IPR infringements

An IPR protection counter at the China Beijing International Fair for Trade in Services on May 29, 2018. [File Photo: IC]BEIJING, March 5 (Xinhua) -- China will improve the punitive damages system for intellectual property rights infringements and increase the extent of compensation, according to the draft outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for national economic and social development and the long-range objectives through the year 2035, which was unveiled on Friday.
China mulls forming new democratic electoral system with Hong Kong characteristics in HKSAR

File photo: XinhuaBEIJING, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Chinas top legislature is considering measures to form in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) a new democratic electoral system suited to Hong Kongs realities and with Hong Kong characteristics, according to senior Chinese lawmaker Wang Chen.A draft decision on improving the electoral system of the HKSAR was submitted on Friday to the fourth annual session of the 13th National Peoples Congress, the top legislature, for deliberation.The overall design of the system will be centered around the reformation and greater empowerment of the HKSAR Election Committee, said Wang, vice chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, while delivering an explanatory speech on the draft at the opening meeting of the session.The size, composition and formation method of the Election Committee will be adjusted and improved, Wang said.The Chief Executive of the HKSAR will continue to be elected by the Election Committee, and the Election Committee will be entrusted with the new function of electing a relatively large share of Legislative Council (LegCo) members and directly participating in the nomination of all candidates for the LegCo, he said.
Live: Chinese ministers meet press at 'Ministers' Corridor'

Following the opening meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC), the Chinese Ministers' Corridor opens to the media, and ministers will take questions from reporters on this year's hottest topics via video links.
Live: China's national legislature starts annual session

The fourth annual session of the 13th National People's Congress (NPC) opens today at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is scheduled to deliver the report on the government's work since the NPC's last session.
China's NPC cooperates with world to bolster understanding

Li Zhanshu, chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, takes part in the group discussion to review the work report of the NPC Standing Committee in Beijing, Feb 27, 2021.The National People's Congress, China's top legislature, has charted a new course in its exchanges with its
NPC deputies meet press ahead of annual session

At this year's gathering, NPC deputies are ready to introduce motions on major political, economic and social issues. They will speak to the media via online video calls ahead of the opening meeting.
Agenda of 4th session of 13th CPPCC National Committee

BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua) -- The following is the adopted agenda for the fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), which runs from March 4 to 10.File photo shows the red flags atop the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China. (File Photo: Xinhua)● Hear and deliberate a work report of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee;● Hear and deliberate a report on how the proposals from political advisors have been handled since the previous annual session;● Sit in on the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress as non-voting participants, hear and discuss reports including a government work report, and discuss the draft outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for national economic and social development and the long-range objectives through the year 2035;● Review and approve a political resolution on the fourth session of 13th CPPCC National Committee;● Review and approve a resolution on the work report of the Standing Committee of the 13th CPPCC National Committee;● Review and approve a resolution on the report on how the proposals from political advisors have been handled since the previous annual session;● Review and approve a report on the examination of proposals.
China's top legislature has power, responsibility to improve HK electoral system: spokesperson

BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinas top legislature, the National Peoples Congress (NPC), has the power and responsibility to make a decision at the constitutional level to improve the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, a spokesperson said Thursday.Zhang Yesui, spokesperson for the fourth annual session of the 13th NPC, made the remarks one day before the top legislatures annual session begins.Photo: Xinhua
China's top legislature to mull improving HK electoral system

File photo: China DailyBEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua) -- The National Peoples Congress (NPC), Chinas top legislature, will deliberate a draft decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Zhang Yesui, spokesperson for the fourth annual session of the 13th NPC said Thursday.Calling the electoral system of the HKSAR an important part of its political structure, Zhang said what happened in recent years has proven the need to improve the system in steps with the times in order to provide a sound institutional guarantee for fully and faithfully implementing "one country, two systems" and fully implementing the principle of "patriots governing Hong Kong."Zhang said the NPC has the power and responsibility to make a decision at the constitutional level to improve the electoral system of the HKSAR.
Agenda of 4th session of 13th National People's Congress

BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua) -- The preparatory meeting of the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress (NPC) on Thursday adopted the following agenda of the session:A view of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. (File Photo: Xinhua)● Deliberate the report on the work of the government;● Review the draft outline of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for national economic and social development and the long-range objectives through the year 2035;● Review the report on the implementation of the 2020 plan and on the 2021 draft plan for national economic and social development, and the draft plan for national economic and social development in 2021;● Review the report on the execution of the central and local budgets for 2020 and on the draft central and local budgets for 2021, and the draft central and local budgets for 2021;● Deliberate the draft amendment to the Organic Law of the NPC;● Deliberate the draft amendment to the Rules of Procedure for the NPC;● Deliberate a draft NPC decision on improving the electoral system of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region;● Deliberate the work report of the NPC Standing Committee;● Deliberate the work report of the Supreme Peoples Court;● Deliberate the work report of the Supreme Peoples Procuratorate.
China's top legislature holds press conference ahead of annual session

China's top legislature, the National People's Congress (NPC), holds a press conference today at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, one day ahead of the opening of its annual session. Zhang Yesui, spokesperson for the fourth session of the 13th NPC, briefs the media and takes questions.
Live: China's top political advisory body starts annual session

The fourth annual session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the country's top political advisory body, opens today at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
Live: Chinese political advisors meet press at first 'Members' Corridor'

This year, the Members' Corridor continues to give political advisors a chance to speak to the public. CPPCC members speak to the media via online video before the opening session.
Two sessions representatives call for seed self-sufficiency

An owner of a hog farm in Qiongjie county, Shannan, Tibet autonomous region, vaccinates a piglet on April 21, 2020. (Photo: Xinhua)Chinese legislators and political advisors have called for a higher level of self-sufficiency in seed supply and the improved breeding of livestock and poultry to reduce the risk of supply cuts, given the current reliance on foreign countries.Li Yuncai, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and inspector of the Hunan Supply and Marketing Cooperative Association, called for the seed industrys development to be a major strategy for the safe and high-quality overall development of Chinas agriculture, and suggested that China needs to draw up a development plan for the seed sector.Zhao Wanping, a deputy to the National Peoples Congress (NPC) and the vice head of the Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, pointed out that the core species sources that underpin Chinas production of pork, chicken, eggs and milk are heavily dependent on imports from the US and Canada. Amid intensified China-US strategic competition, cutting supplies would harm China.Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Tang Renjian said in January that seeds are the key to Chinas food security.He stressed that efforts should be concentrated on resource protection and independent innovation, so as to narrow the gaps between corn, soybeans and pig breeds with international advanced levels, and ensure that the provenance of important agricultural products is independent and controllable."Grain such as soybean depends highly on import and corn import increases dramatically too. High-end varieties of vegetable seeds are mainly imported… The germplasm resources of livestock and poultry have depended on foreign imports for a long time," LüYuping, general manager of Longping Biotechnology (Hainan) Co, told the Global Times on Wednesday.According to Lü, the stranglehold problem reg...
Accusation against China's vaccine export narrow-minded: spokesperson

The first batch of COVID-19 vaccines arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Feb. 24, 2021.(File photo: Xinhua)BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The claim that China exports COVID-19 vaccines to expand geopolitical clout is narrow-minded, a spokesperson for the fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference said Wednesday.China has pledged to make vaccines global public goods, and has encouraged Chinese enterprises to cooperate with relevant countries in vaccine research, development and production, spokesperson Guo Weimin told a press conference in Beijing.China has joined COVAX and is actively promoting the fair distribution of vaccines globally, Guo said, adding that as of the end of February, China has provided vaccine aid to 69 countries and two international organizations and exported vaccines to 28 countries.China has advanced international cooperation on vaccines to fight the pandemic, showing its commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind, Guo said.As COVID-19 cases continue to rage globally, China is willing to work with other countries and shoulder its responsibility in protecting the safety and health of people around the world, Guo added.
Spokesperson stresses importance of 'patriots governing Hong Kong'

BEIJING, March 3 -- "Patriots governing Hong Kong" is the essence and fundamental principle of "one country, two systems," a spokesperson said Wednesday.Guo Weimin, spokesperson for the fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the
China's top political advisory body briefs media ahead of annual session

The National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, Chinas top political advisory body, held a news conference via video link on Wednesday, one day ahead of the opening of its annual session.Journalists attend a press conference of the fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) through video link in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2021. (Photo: Xinhua)Guo Weimin, spokesperson of the fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee, briefed journalists on the session and took questions.Here are some highlights:- The session this year will last six and a half days, opening at 3 pm tomorrow and closing on the afternoon of March 10 (Read more)- Chinese COVID-19 vaccines safe, meet global standards- As of Feb 28, China had administered over 52 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines- Attempts to boycott Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics are doomed to fail, official says- Chinas international image affected by many factors, including lack of understanding and hostile politicians
China increasing efforts to address child sexual abuse

File Photo: CFPLatest data show that China has been increasing its efforts to address child sexual abuse in recent years, but still faces significant challenges.A number of deputies to Chinas National Peoples Congress (NPC) and members of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), along with representatives from child protection organizations and other government departments, gathered at a symposium organized by the non-governmental organization Girls Protection in Beijing on Tuesday.They reviewed the data on the number of children who were sexually abused in China last year and discussed proposals for continued vigilance in this area, ahead of this years Fourth Plenary Session of the 13th NPC and CPPCC, the most important annual political event in China - collectively known as the two sessions.According to the 2020 Child Sexual Abuse Case Statistics and Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education Survey Report, there were 845 victims with 332 cases of sexual abuse against children under 18 years old publicly reported in the media throughout the year. The youngest victim was reported to be only one year old. Of these cases, 74 percent were committed by acquaintances with a growing proportion of family members as perpetrators of these crimes. In terms of the victims, 90.61 percent were girls and 9.76 percent boys.The total number of reported cases in 2020 is slightly higher than the previous two years, which also proves that society is becoming less tolerant to this type of cases and the country is gradually increasing its efforts to combat them. However, "the numbers are still worrying and there is a long way to go for children protection," Sun Xuemei, head of Girls Protection, pointed out.According to the statistics released by Girls Protection, 66.40 percent of child sexual abuse cases occurred in cities, 30.36 percent in counties and 10.53 percent in rural areas."This does not mean that children in urban areas ar...
China's top political advisory body holds press conference ahead of annual session

The National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, holds a press conference on the upcoming fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee. Guo Weimin, spokesperson for the session, briefs the media and takes questions.
Chinese lawmakers, advisors suggest issuing vaccine passports at two sessions

Staff members of the customs check the health declaration information of newly arrived inbound passengers in Chongqing, southwest China, March 29, 2020. (File photo: Xinhua)As China has basically contained the virus and the speedy rolling out of vaccination in countries around the world is anticipated to help them control the epidemic, several Chinese lawmakers and political advisors said they will propose the issuance of digital vaccine travel certificates or "vaccine passports" in this years two sessions to help people get life back to normal."China could encourage the public to voluntarily get vaccinated and gradually issue a new passport for those who have been vaccinated," Zhu Zhengfu, a prominent Chinese lawyer and a member of the National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, told the Global Times on Tuesday.Business and travel visas could be issued to people with vaccine passports if they want to go to countries and regions where the COVID-19 epidemic has been effectively curbed, Zhu said.He also suggested that international arrivals could be exempted from the requirement of 14-day quarantine if they have a negative nucleic acid test report and the vaccine passport, while people in China can travel freely within the country free from nucleic acid testing if they have the vaccine passports.Zhu also suggested the country promote the mutual recognition of the vaccine passports in the world, to boost international tourism and economic exchanges.Zhus proposal was echoed by Witman Hung Wai-man, a Hong Kong-based deputy to the National Peoples Congress, who suggested the central government set up a vaccine passport recognized by both the mainland and Hong Kong. With the passport, Hong Kong residents who have been vaccinated with domestic vaccines or foreign-produced vaccines recognized by China and have a negative nucleic acid test report will not need to get quarantined when they enter the mainl...
Chinese legislator proposes lifelong ban for entertainers who take drugs

Photo: UnsplashA Chinese legislator has proposed permanently banning entertainers from performing in the industry again if they take drugs, ahead of Chinas upcoming two sessions. The proposal was lauded by many netizens, but some raised concerns over discrimination against people receiving drug rehabilitation.As of the end of 2019, there were 2.148 million drug users in China, among whom 1.186 million were methamphetamine addicts, 807,000 were heroin abusers and 24,000 used cannabis, said a report released by an anti-drug website led by Chinas National Narcotics Control Commission in June 2020.Expatriates, students from overseas or those on work experience, and entertainers constitute the main group of cannabis users in China, according to the report.Celebrities abusing drugs set bad examples and affect the psychological health of young people who are the main audience for entertainment shows and have limited knowledge about the hazards of drugs, Zhu an NPC deputy who is a lawyer with the Guoding Law Firm in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, told the Global Times. Zhu said that such a ban could curb increasing drug abuse in the entertainment industry.Public figures should shoulder corresponding social responsibilities, set up a positive image and promote positive values among the public when they are enjoying the social resources brought by lucrative internet traffic, Zhu said.He also noted that, such celebrities are very likely to become addicted again in spite of receiving rehabilitation. The drugs used among entertainment addicts are often synthetic drugs like methamphetamine, which have a high relapse rate."The high-pressure working environment they may face after returning could also lead them back to drugs again," Zhu said, adding that their return may also induce more people in the industry to abuse drugs.The proposal was supported by many netizens but also drew worries over discrimination against people receiving drug addiction treatment. Ma...
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Infographic: Things you need to know about this year's Two Sessions

(Produced by Gong Han, Huang Jingjing, Bao Han and He Xi)(Sources: npc.gov.cn, cppcc.gov.cn, Xinhua)
Chinese political advisor proposes establishing national 'data bank' to ensure info security

Illustration for facial recognition Illustration: VCG .China should establish a national "data bank" to strengthen management of the use of biometric data including facial and fingerprint recognition and enterprises should be strictly regulated when collecting residents' personal information, a poli
China's national legislature to hold press conference ahead of annual session

BEIJING, March 2 (Xinhua) -- The National Peoples Congress (NPC), Chinas top legislature, will hold a press conference on Thursday, one day ahead of the opening of its annual session.File Photo: XinhuaA spokesperson for the fourth session of the 13th NPC will take questions from Chinese and foreign reporters on the agenda of the session and work of the NPC, according to the press center of the session.The press conference, scheduled for 9:40 p.m., will be held via video link due to the COVID-19 prevention and control requirements. The event will be broadcast live by China Media Group and on xinhuanet.com.
China's top political advisory body to hold press conference ahead of annual session

BEIJING, March 2 (Xinhua) -- The National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Chinas top political advisory body, will hold a press conference on Wednesday, one day ahead of the opening of its annual session.Guo Weimin, spokesperson of the fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee, will brief journalists on the session and take questions.The press conference, scheduled for 3 p.m., will be held via video link due to the COVID-19 prevention and control requirements. The event will be broadcast live by China Media Group and on xinhuanet.com.
Two sessions: The essential political consultative conference

The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference is a political advisory body in the People's Republic of China.The role that CPPCC plays in the Chinese government is stated in the preamble of the PRC Constitution. In practice, its role and powers are somewhat analogous to an advisory legisla
China's top political advisory body to open annual session on March 4

BEIJING, March 1 (Xinhua) -- The fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), Chinas top political advisory body, will open in Beijing on Thursday.Flags are seen at the Tiananmen Square and atop the Great Hall of the People during the opening meeting of the second session of the 13th National Peoples Congress in Beijing, capital of China, March 5, 2019. (Xinhua/Yang Zongyou)The decision was made at a meeting of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee on Monday.The proposed agenda for the session includes hearing and deliberating a work report of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee and a report on how the proposals from political advisors have been handled since the previous session.Members of the CPPCC National Committee are expected to sit in on the fourth session of the 13th National Peoples Congress, which is scheduled to open on Friday, as non-voting participants.They will hear and discuss documents including the government work report and the draft 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) for National Economic and Social Development and the Long-Range Objectives Through the Year 2035, according to the proposed agenda.

CHINA Two Sessions 2021

Two Sessions 2021

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