Nearly 3,000 delegates are meeting in Beijing for China’s annual National People’s Congress, a key political event that signals the direction the Communist Party intends to take the country. While approvals of proposals typically pass with minimal opposition, the event provides insight into the government’s priorities. A correspondent on the ground assessed the mood of the Chinese government as the session opened.
Key Themes This Year
The centerpiece of the event is the work report delivered by Premier Li Qiang. He presented the report to the assembled delegates and President Xi Jinping, outlining the government’s growth target for the Chinese economy. Several new laws are as well on the agenda, including a law on “ethnic unity” that experts suggest could be used to suppress ethnic minorities. The congress will also approve the 15th Five-Year Plan, a crucial document for long-term economic and social development.
The Role of the Delegates
While votes are theoretically held, in practice, they yield only isolated dissenting votes or abstentions. The assembly approved the Premier’s work report from last year with 2882 votes in favor, one against, and one abstention – a typical outcome. Since Xi Jinping came to power, the National People’s Congress has seen no public dissent, with delegates consistently voting in line with the official position of the Communist Party.
China’s Economic Outlook
The government has set a growth target of 4.5 to 5 percent for this year, the lowest level in 35 years. China is grappling with youth unemployment, weak consumer spending, and a downturn in the real estate sector. The government is heavily focused on future technologies, with delegates expressing confidence in interviews that robots and artificial intelligence will drive growth. China intends to increase investment in research, aiming to replicate the success seen in the electric vehicle sector, prioritizing quality over quantity.
Impact of the Middle East Conflict
The conflict in the Middle East received little attention at the opening session in Beijing. Li Qiang referenced the global situation in his work report, noting the pressure it places on China. He stated that multilateralism and free trade are at risk before the assembled delegates. The military budget is set to increase by seven percent next year.
Global Relevance of the Congress
The National People’s Congress is a highly choreographed event, featuring prepared speeches and predetermined outcomes. Nevertheless, it offers a rare glimpse into the thinking of Chinese policymakers. Policy shifts often surface for the first time during the congress. It’s a political showcase that doesn’t produce policy, but rather presents policy that has already been decided.
