The third session of 14th National People’s Congress, China’s national legislature, opened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on 5th March.
President Xi Jinping and other Chinese leaders presided over the opening meeting.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered the government work report on behalf of the State Council.
In his report, Li noted that despite external pressures and internal challenges, China’s economy remained stable with steady progress under the leadership of the Party Central Committee. Key goals were met, high-quality development advanced, and China’s economic and technological strength grew. This progress has strengthened confidence in building a modern socialist nation.
Li highlighted achievements such as enhancing macroeconomic control, deepening reforms, promoting innovation, improving social welfare, and focusing on environmental protection and governance. He also acknowledged ongoing challenges, urging confidence in overcoming them.
China has set a GDP growth target of around 5% for 2025, maintaining a level similar to the previous year’s goal.
The session reviewed the State Council’s report on the implementation of the 2024 national economic and social development plan and the draft plan for 2025, as well as the report on the implementation of the 2024 central and local budgets and the draft budget for 2025.
The draft amendments to the Law on Deputies to the National People’s Congress and Local People’s Congresses aim to enhance the role and duties of deputies.
The changes reflect the need to align with Xi Jinping’s thought and the Party’s decisions, promoting high-quality development of the NPC system. Key updates include improving the “two-way communication” system, enhancing deputies’ work capacity, clarifying regulations for activities during and between NPC sessions, and refining the proposal and supervision mechanisms. The amendments support the Party’s leadership and ensure the NPC system continues to serve the people effectively.
