China's annual Two Sessions meetings kick off this week in Beijing, drawing delegates from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau to discuss legislation, personnel changes, and the budget. The event comprises sessions by the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) held concurrently. While the CPPCC is an advisory body, the NPC serves as the Communist party's legislative arm, historically passing all bills presented before it. Notable figures like Jackie Chan and Yao Ming have been part of the CPPCC, which often considers unconventional proposals.
During the Two Sessions, the premier delivers a "work report" speech, and occasionally, Xi Jinping may address the gathering. The meetings establish official economic goals, unveil military budgets, and confirm party leadership alterations. In previous years, significant policy shifts emerged from the Two Sessions, such as Xi's third-term confirmation in 2023 and the introduction of Hong Kong's national security law in 2020.
This year's focus is on the 15th five-year plan outlining Beijing's economic strategies for 2026-2030. The plan, discussed in draft form last year by senior CCP officials, emphasizes bolstering domestic consumption and advancing China's capabilities in cutting-edge sectors like nuclear fusion, quantum tech, and AI. Despite a trade war truce with the US, China aims to reduce its reliance on American markets. Additionally, this year's meetings occur amid a significant restructuring within the People's Liberation Army (PLA), marked by investigations into top military officials for corruption and disloyalty.
Foreign media presence at the Two Sessions remains robust, with journalists attending for insights and face-to-face interactions with CCP officials. In a departure from the norm, the 2024 premier's press conference was unexpectedly canceled without clarification, further limiting transparency in the event.
