14 Jun 2020

China intends to meet this year’s economic and social development targets despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

A statement from the Chinese Embassy states that the recent annual meeting between China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), also referred to as ‘The Two Sessions’ considered important indicators for China’s domestic and foreign policies.

The meeting also discussed major issues concerning the country’s way forward in its national development.

The Two Sessions also adopted the government work report which listed a series of practical measures to develop the economy, stabilise employment, support business and ensure people’s well-being without setting a specific target for this year’s GDP growth for the first time so that all can focus on winning the battle against poverty and becoming a middle-income country.

Furthermore, the meeting agreed to step up modernisation of China’s system and capacity for governance covering a wide range of civil issues such as marriage, property, privacy and contracts, providing protection of lawful rights and the interests of all citizens. “The NPC’s decision on establishing and improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for the Hong Kong special administrative region as a sure choice and legitimate action of China against any foreign interference in Hong Kong affairs demonstrates China’s firm position and unwavering will to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, uphold and improve “one country, two systems” and contribute to Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and stability,” states the release.

The Two Sessions also set the tone for China’s message for closer anti-pandemic international cooperation and higher-standard of opening up China to work with other countries.

The statement says it entails strengthening cooperation on COVID-19 response with the international community, building a human community with a shared future, and China’s commitment to opening its door wider to the world and advancing the Belt and Road Initiative to boost economic and trade cooperation with other countries so as to promote stability in the world economy. ENDS