China's top political advisory body holds press conference ahead of Two Sessions
The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) held its first press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Saturday, one day ahead of the second session of the 13th National Committee of CPPCC. (Photos: GT/Wang Cong)
China to further improve social credit system
China will improve its social credit system to promote honesty and deter dishonest behaviors, a spokesperson with the annual session of the country's top political advisory body said Saturday.
Interview: China's consistency in pursuing development sets example for Tanzania, says official
China has been very consistent in its pursuit of eradicating poverty and unleashing the potential for growth and human development, and that sets a good exmaple for Tanzania to learn, according to a senior official of Tanzania's ruling party.
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), the country's top political advisory body, will open its annual session Sunday afternoon in Beijing, a spokesperson said Saturday.
China's stance on HK constitutional reform unchanged
The Chinese government's stance on the constitutional reform in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is "clear and consistent," a spokesman for the Chinese political advisory body said Monday.
Mainland confident in 'One Country, Two Systems' policy for HK
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday assured that the Chinese government will not tighten its policy toward Hong Kong because of the stability of the “One Country, Two Systems” policy.
Decision on HK universal suffrage 'unshakable': NPC spokeswoman
Chinese top legislature's decision on the universal suffrage in the election of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive is "unshakable," a spokeswoman said Wednesday.
Full Text: Report on the Work of the Government
Following is the full text of the Report on the Work of the Government delivered by Premier Li Keqiang at the Third Session of the Twelfth National People's Congress on March 5, 2015 and adopted on March 15, 2015.
Working on
The Global Times presents some of the key phrases and highlights of reforms pledged during this year's two sessions, offering an insight into China's future policy goals and direction.
Top judicial bodies' reports hailed
The annual work reports of China's top court and procuratorate won record support from legislators during the voting session Sunday, in contrast to having been ranked the lowest in six major work reports in the past decade.
CPC flagship newspaper urges promoting rule of law
The People's Daily, the flagship newspaper of the Communist Party of China (CPC), hailed the successful conclusion of the annual session of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's parliamentary body, and urged to boost the rule of law in an editorial to be published Monday.
Free trade zone fever spawns more regional hopefuls
Deputies to the National People's Congress (NPC) are pushing to have their jurisdictions included in the country's next batch of free trade zones (FTZs) after three new zones were approved in December.
On the intellectual property rights
China's top judicial authorities should strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR) and serve as a protector for enterprises' self-innovation, as it has a role in whether the country's economy could move upward.
On the yuan
The US dollar, the euro and the yuan will make up the three pillars of world currencies. Currently, the dollar weighs too much, and US monetary policy is made without considering our [China's] feelings. That's the fundamental problem of the global currency system.
China expects steady, sound growth of real estate
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Sunday that he hopes to see "steady and sound growth of China's real estate market in the long run."
Chinese premier promises to pave way for entrepreneurs
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday that the government will continue to "remove roadblocks and pave the way" for entrepreneurship, in a bid to boost market vitality amid economic slowdown.
Premier stresses ample policy room, growth quality
Despite a slight economic slowdown, China still has a string of policy tools at the government's disposal to bolster economic growth, aiming to achieve a better-quality economic development, Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday.
China weighing further birth policy changes: Premier
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday said China is still reviewing adjustments to the country's birth policy implemented in 2014 in order to decide whether further changes are needed.
Polluters to pay price "too high to bear": Premier Li
Polluters will pay a price "too high to bear" for their illegal acts, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang warned Sunday.
Sino-Japanese ties face test, opportunity: Premier
Sino-Japanese relations are now facing both "a test and an opportunity" at the important moment of this year which marks the 70th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday.
Chinese mainland to give Taiwan priority in opening-up: Premier
Chinese mainland will give priority to Taiwan in terms of the depth and intensity of opening-up, said Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday.
China to hold inactive, incompetent officials accountable: Premier
Government officials must be held responsible for their inaction, incompetence or indolence, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday.
China not free rider, but major contributor: Premier
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday that China is not a free rider and its development at a reasonable speed is huge contribution to the world.
Encouraging reading to feature gov't work report again in 2016: Chinese premier
Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday called on the Chinese people to read more and promised that the policy of encouraging reading will again be part of next year's government work report.
China to streamline gov't administration to boost vitality
China will step up its efforts in streamlining the government administration and mandating more power to lower-level governments to further vitalize the market, Premier Li Keqiang said on Sunday.
Chinese central government not to tighten policy toward HK: Premier
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Sunday that it is not necessary to worry about the Chinese central government tightening its policy toward Hong Kong.
China hopes Ukraine issue to be settled through dialogue: Premier Li
China hopes the Ukraine issue to be settled through dialogue, Premier Li Keqiang said Sunday.
Economic 'new normal' does not indicate problems: PBC
China has not changed its stance on its prudent monetary policy, despite having used various tools to adjust liquidity in the market, the central bank chief told reporters on Thursday.
Runaway officials to be tried in absentia
China's top judicial authorities have stepped up efforts to hunt down suspected corrupt officials who have fled overseas and will lay the groundwork to have these suspects tried in absentia to retrieve the assets they have hidden.
Slovenia sees opportunity in Sino-EU ties, 'One Belt, One Road' initiatives
This is my sixth time to follow the NPC and the CPPCC, and that it's an excellent opportunity for me to get an overview of what was done during the last year and what the Chinese leadership plans to do for the next year.
China provides equal judicial protection
China's Chief Justice Zhou Qiang on Thursday said China has taken steps to equally protect the rights of its citizens and foreigners in China, with thousands of cases involving disputes with foreign nationals solved last year.
National security gets priority
China's top court and procuratorate has prioritized the fight against terrorism and secessionism in 2015, vowing to safeguard national security and social stability, according to work reports delivered on Thursday.
Chief justice vows end to wrongful convictions
China's Chief Justice Zhou Qiang on Thursday expressed self-reproach for wrongful convictions and urged fellow judges to learn from them.
Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang pressers set new, more transparent tone
It is an age-old stereotype that Chinese officials are reluctant to speak to the press. Although it is not easy to get sensitive information anywhere in the world, in China things are particularly difficult for reporters. However, inspiring changes have taken place during the current two sessions in Beijing.
Major revisions for wildlife law
Revisions to the Law for the Protection of Wildlife are likely to be completed by the end of this year, a move which analysts expect could raise public awareness about animal welfare and protecting endangered animals.
1 trillion yuan debt swap quota assigned to local govts
The Ministry of Finance's 1 trillion yuan ($160 billion) debt swap line has been assigned to local governments, deputies to the National People's Congress (NPC) said on Thursday.
On the stock market
There are so many enterprises that have gotten financing from the stock market, and these funds have supported the development of the real economy. Some stock transactions are speculation, but we cannot just conclude that funds flowing into the stock market do not support the economy.
Senior leaders stress socialist values, development
Senior Chinese leaders on Thursday made remarks on core socialist values and development in panel discussions with deputies attending the annual session of the National People's Congress (NPC), the country's top legislature.
China considers granting Sansha city local legislative power
National legislators proposed to grant the local legislative power to Sansha city of south China's Hainan Province, said the national legislature Thursday.
Govt decides reincarnation
The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama has to be endorsed by China's central government, instead of himself or anyone else, a top Chinese official of ethnic and religious affairs said Wednesday.
Taiwan welcome to join WWII commemoration
The Chinese mainland is open to dialogue with any political party or group in Taiwan if the 1992 Consensus is honored, a spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Organ ban sign of 'progress'
Abandoning the use of organs harvested from executed prisoners for organ transplants is a symbol of China's progress in human rights, as well as in medical and health services, a senior health official said on Wednesday.
Italy hails Beijing's efforts to improve livelihood, ready to offer support
In his government work report presented on March 5, Premier Li Keqiang discussed the government's recent achievements and highlighted the issues and plans that will be at the core of its action in 2015, with a special focus on innovation and reform. Within this context, particularly interesting is the expected progress in fields such as the environment, agriculture/food safety, health and sustainable urbanization, where friendly countries can also be called upon to play an important role.
Nation's coastal waters heavily polluted in 2014
China's oceanic authorities said on Wednesday the country's coastal waters were seriously contaminated in 2014, following a national political adviser's call for marine environment protection on Tuesday.
On the grain reserve
I am very concerned about the perspective that China's grain reserve is excessive. The reserve has cost China a loss of over 60 billion yuan ($9.6 billion), but the loss is worthwhile. China cannot risk a shortage or it will be subject to other countries.
On the 'One Belt, One Road' initiative
China's “One Belt, One Road” initiative faces two strategic risks: the geopolitics risk from Middle East, Central and South Asian countries and the financial risk. China should prevent currency fluctuation and debt risks when implementing the initiative.
Political advisors offer suggestions on democracy, anti-corruption
Chinese political advisors met Wednesday for their annual session to voice suggestions on the country's political development.
China issues opinions to encourage mass entrepreneurship, innovation
China's State Council has issued opinions to instruct the public on entrepreneurship and innovation, according to an announcement on Wednesday.
Chinese official urges Dalai Lama to "forsake evil ways"
A senior Chinese religious official on Wednesday urged the Dalai Lama to "forsake his evil ways and return to the good," stressing that Tibet will not descend into chaos.
New retirement policy in 2017
China plans to unveil its policy on delayed retirement in 2017, and is expected to be implemented as early as 2022, according to China's human resources minister.
Works on anti-graft should be encouraged: screen writer
The sweeping anti-graft campaign has created a good atmosphere for Chinese writers and artists to write stories about the topic, but classic works are still very rare, a seasoned screenwriter said at the ongoing two sessions Tuesday.
Draft charity law would seek to build trust through better supervision
Senior officials said Tuesday that a draft charity law would be reviewed at the end of this year, and that lawmakers have brought changes to the Red Cross Society Law under consideration.
Terrorists in Xinjiang 'returned from IS'
A Chinese official on Tuesday revealed that authorities in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region have broken up terror groups who had returned from fighting with the Islamic State (IS), a trend observers say poses a threat to the region's stability with the terrorists' increased combat capacity.
German envoy cites need for clear law on investment
German Ambassador to China Michael Clauss, who attended the opening session of China's National People's Congress (NPC) since he took office in 2013, follows the plenary session in order to get an idea to what extent the NPC will advance China's reform, especially in the field of the rule of law, Clauss said in an e-mail interview with the Global Times Tuesday.
On the work safety
I had a dream in the night that workers in China's coal mines had been replaced with robots after reading materials about intelligent manufacturing in the US.
On the Securities Law
China will deliberate on the draft to the amendment of the Securities Law in late April. The revised law is expected to be published within the year, and focuses on protecting small and medium-sized investors' interest.
Political advisors offer suggestions on China's social development
Chinese political advisors met Tuesday for their annual session to voice suggestions on the country's social development, ranging from education and employment to work safety and protection of farmers' rights.
China expected to revise securities law in 2015
China is expected to revise its Securities Law this year in accordance with the country's 2015 legislation plan, a lawmaker said Tuesday.
Chinese leaders urge battle against poverty, corruption
Senior Chinese leaders called for greater efforts to be made to fight poverty and corruption Tuesday as they joined the country's lawmakers in discussion during the ongoing annual legislative session.
China assessing family planning policy adjustment
China is assessing the adjustment made to the one-child policy to decide whether further adjustment of birth policies are needed to address the change in population growth, a senior lawmaker said Tuesday.
Migrant workers' representation rises at China's top legislature
Vegetable farmers, security guards, construction workers and foot masseurs are among more than 2,900 people reviewing the draft revision of China's Legislation Law at this year's parliamentary session.
China faces arduous task of ensuring employment
China is faced with a more complex and arduous task of ensuring employment in 2015 against the backdrop of an economic slowdown, China's human resources minister said Tuesday.
Top Tibet official blasts Dalai
A top Tibetan official blasted the Dalai Lama's recent remarks that the Tibetan Buddhism tradition of reincarnation should cease with his death, adding that such claims are blasphemy against Tibetan Buddhism.
NPC mulls first-ever press law
China's top legislature is mulling the country's first press law, with a draft is expected to be read by the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), a former senior official from China's press authorities said.
PLA delegates support ongoing anti-graft efforts
Military representatives attending the ongoing annual legislative and political advisory sessions have expressed their support and confidence in the sweeping crackdown against corruption within the armed forces.
Officials slam local deputies' absences
A senior official from Hebei Province slammed the wide absence of local deputies during a panel discussion of the ongoing two sessions Sunday.
Political adviser proposes abandoning extrajudicial Party discipline
A national political adviser has proposed incorporating Party disciplinary interrogations into China's legal system, in a bid to prevent abusive practices such as forced confessions.
Vote on anti-terrorism bill 'in due time'
The draft law on anti-terrorism will be put to a third reading and a vote “in due time” based on the top legislature's plan for 2015, an NPC official said on Monday.
Organ supply in China half of demand
A former senior health official said that demand for organ transplants in China is twice as much as the supply rather than 1:150, a rate that has been widely reported in the past years.
On the property industry
Relaxed property measures are not firefighting tools for local governments when they fail to achieve their annual economic goals.
On revitalizing old industrial bases in Northeast China
Relying on investment is not enough to revitalize old industrial bases in Northeast China. Innovation-driven development, the elimination of outdated industrial capacity and a market-oriented approach are also needed during the transition.
Classic proposal
What will be the best way to carry on traditional Chinese culture as we move further into the 21st century? This question has been on the mind of a number of CPPCC National Committee members during the ongoing two sessions, the annual meetings of China's top legislative body and top national advisory body.
Xi urges reform to revive rust belt in NE China
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called for new engines to revitalize northeast China's old industrial base amid the "new normal" of economic development.
China mulls harsher anti-corruption laws
Chinese legislature is speeding up efforts to make harsher laws to fight corruption, a senior law official said Monday.
China's anti-terrorism bill to put for a vote "in due time"
The draft law on anti-terrorism will be put for a third reading and a vote "in due time" according to the top legislature's plan for 2015, said an official with the National People's Congress (NPC) here Monday.
China to speed up drafting anti-corruption law
China plans to develop national legislation to fight corruption, according to a report delivered by top legislator Zhang Dejiang Sunday.
China keeping close tabs on border conflict in Myanmar
China on Sunday urged stability in its border area with Myanmar as well as conflict-hit parts of the Southeast Asian country.
Law tightens checks on power
A draft revision to China's Legislation Law bans ministries and local governments from issuing rules and policies that mitigate citizens' rights or increase their obligations without legal basis.
Foreign policy in 2015 to focus on 'Belt and Road' initiatives
China's diplomatic thrust for 2015 will focus on promoting the “One Belt, One Road” initiatives, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on the sidelines of the ongoing national legislative session on Sunday.
NPC to back reform with legislation
Top legislator Zhang Dejiang on Sunday stressed the importance of a legal basis in supporting the country's economic and political reform as he announced a series of plans for legislation.
New media reveals changing face of two sessions reporting in an increasingly connected world
Although China's ongoing two sessions have been filled with heavy political and economic policy-led discussions, the use of interactive new media, such as smartphones, wireless Internet connections and social media, has helped reporting on the annual meetings become more interesting, while bringing the two sessions closer to the general public.
Top legislator hails "great significance" of NPC decision on HK
The decision adopted by China's top legislature on the selection of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive by universal suffrage is of "great significance," top legislator Zhang Dejiang said Sunday.
China's top legislator stresses CPC leadership, confidence in people' s congresses
China's top legislator Zhang Dejiang on Sunday underscored the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in the work of the country's top legislature, while expressing confidence in China's system of people's congresses.
Report stresses CPC leadership, confidence in people's congresses
A report published Sunday on the work of China's top legislature in 2014 underscored the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), while expressing confidence in China's system of people's congresses.
Top legislature to enhance oversight
China's National People's Congress would step up oversight over the work of the government and judicial organs as well as budgets and final accounts, top legislator Zhang Dejiang said Sunday.
On the aviation
Airworthiness reviews of drones should be conducted to see whether they can deliver packages in China.
On the IT industry
Widespread sale of counterfeit products, fraud and data forgery are problems that China's IT industry needs to address.
China asks conscience of Japan 70 years after war
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday asked Japanese politicians to use their own conscience while judging the history 70 years after Japan lost a war with China.
Govt's thrust remains consistent: Finland envoy
Finland's ambassador to China said Chinese Premier Li Keqiang's annual government work report at the opening session of the third session of the 12th National People's Congress on Thursday feeds off last year's report.
China's 2015 diplomacy focuses on 'Belt and Road'
China's diplomacy in 2015 will focus on making all around progress in the "Belt and Road" initiatives, said Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the ongoing national legislative session on Sunday.
Reform of int'l order needed, but not about overturning current one: minister
The current international order and system needs to be updated, but it is not about overturning the current one or starting all over again, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.
China's military leaders pledge to uphold "Four Comprehensives"
China's military leaders vowed to fully implement the strategic layout of "Four Comprehensives" put forward by President Xi Jinping and build strong armed forces at the ongoing national legislative session on Thursday and Friday.
China confident to deliver 6-pct foreign trade growth goal: minister
Despite challenges from the global economy, China is confident to deliver the target of increasing its trade volume by around 6 percent this year, Commerce Minister Gao Hucheng said Saturday.
Minister calls to advance cross-Strait trade talks
The Chinese commerce minister Gao Hucheng on Saturday urged to advance the follow-up talks on the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), a cross-Strait economic pact signed in 2010.
China faces unprecedented environment, development conflict: minister
China's newly appointed environment chief said Saturday that the world's second largest economy is faced with the unprecedented conflict between environmental protection and development in human history.
Lowered 7% GDP target aims at quality growth
The closely watched 2015 economic growth target was unveiled on Thursday at around 7 percent, the lowest in 11 years, as the world's second-largest economy moves to retain its growth momentum while fostering high quality growth.
Premier vows to streamline government, delegate power
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday vowed to streamline government and delegate power in a move set to boost market vitality that will redefine the government's role in the economy.
China gets serious against pollution
China will combat environmental pollution with an iron fist this year, Premier Li Keqiang said in his annual government work report Thursday, listing the reduction of energy consumption as one of the major development goals.
Voices
Here are Thursday's highlighted opinions from lawmakers at the two sessions.
HIV on rise among elderly
In the wake of increasing numbers of seniors contracting HIV/AIDS, a national lawmaker proposed on Thursday establishing a national intervention system in communities and distributing condoms to elderly people for free.
On the consumption
Under China's “new normal,” the country's manufacturing firms should focus on how to provide personalized products and services to Chinese consumers in a bid to encourage them to shop domestically.
On IPOs
China is mulling revising the Securities Law to allow unprofitable companies to go public, because unprofitable firms are different from junk companies, and the former are not necessarily bad companies. The job of judging companies' business prospects should be left to the market.
Taxi app regulations might be issued in first half of 2015
China's transport minister said on Thursday that he hopes to have regulations issued on the use of mobile apps to book private cars within the first half of 2015, State media reported, amid doubts over the legal status in China of Uber and similar services.
Senior Chinese leader proclaims bright economic prospects despite slowdown
Senior Chinese leader Liu Yunshan on Thursday expressed confidence in China's slowing economy despite looming downward pressure on the world's second largest economy.
China likely to maintain 7 pct growth for 20 years
China has lowered its 2015 economic growth target to about 7 percent, a growth pace which analysts said could be maintained for 20 years as the country continues to enjoy huge development potential.
China to speed up implementation of free trade zone strategy
China will quicken the pace of implementing the strategy of free trade zones (FTZs) and turn institutional innovation into a strong impetus for the country's development, President Xi Jinping said Thursday.
China's anti-corruption chief underlines Party discipline
China's anti-corruption chief Wang Qishan on Thursday called for strict Party disciplines in order to serve the purpose of comprehensively building a moderately prosperous society.
Top political advisor highlights 'new normal' adaptation, Party discipline
China's top political advisor Yu Zhengsheng on Thursday called for prompt efforts to adapt to the country's economic "new normal" of slower growth, while stressing Party discipline against nepotism and graft.
Schedules for NPC, CPPCC annual sessions -- March 6
Following are the schedules for the third sessions of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) and the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on Friday.
China to further streamline energy layout amid 'new normal'
China will spare no effort to further optimize the country's energy structure as the world's largest producer and consumer of energy enters a "new normal", a senior energy official said.
Top legislator stresses implementation of 'four comprehensives'
China's top legislator Zhang Dejiang on Thursday called for enhanced efforts to implement the "four comprehensives" strategic layout in order to realize economic and social development targets.
China lowers growth target, eyes better quality
China unveiled its economic growth target for 2015 Thursday, putting an end to months of speculation.
FAQ on China's 'two sessions'
The ongoing annual political sessions in China may be drawing worldwide attention, however, the "two sessions", and what they entail, are not fully understood by many Chinese and overseas observers.
China rules out introduction of strong stimulus
China's top economic planner said Thursday that China will not introduce strong stimulus measures to prop economy.
Chinese government promises quicker investment approval
Chinese government on Thursday promised to process investment applications in much shorter time by reforming its approval system.
Bigger role of HK expected in promoting development: minister
China's top economic planner said Thursday that Hong Kong was expected to play a bigger role in promoting the country's development.
China stresses win-win in exporting industrial capacity, equipment
China will further encourage projects that export Chinese industrial capacity and equipment under a "win-win" principle, an official with the country's top economic planner said on Thursday.
China's economic performance 'better than expected': minister
The Chinese economy is confronted with more difficulties than anticipated in 2014, but it has scored more achievements than expected, said Xu Shaoshi, minister in charge of the National Development and Reform Commission, China's top economic planner.
China to regulate Internet, support development
One of China's top economic planners said Thursday that China's recent regulatory measures on the Internet are in line with international practices.
Defense spending 'appropriate and rational': Chinese military strategist
Following the announcement of the defense budget for 2015, a military strategist and national lawmaker said increased spending was needed to build a stronger army, but China's budget remained comparatively low.
Confidence in China's growth not weakened: top economic planner
China's confidence in achieving its economic growth rate of around 7 percent this year is not weakened despite rising downward pressure, a senior official said Thursday.
State Council appoints new officials
The State Council, China's cabinet, on Thursday announced the appointment of several officials.
China rules out introduction of strong stimulus
China's top economic planner said Thursday that China will not introduce strong stimulus measures to prop economy.
China's parliament convenes, pooling strength to tackle "formidable difficulty"
Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday warned "formidable difficulty" in 2015, setting a slower growth target, but stressed his confidence in the ongoing reform to start new development engines.
China to improve people's livelihood
China will beef up efforts to improve people's living standards and promote social development this year, Premier Li Keqiang said in Beijing Thursday at the National People's Congress annual session.
China to see spike of ODI in 2015: report
China's outward direct investment (ODI) will continue to post robust growth this year, evidence of Chinese companies' efforts of going global, according to a Thursday report from the nation's top economic planner.
China lowers 2015 economic growth target to around 7 percent
China targeted economic growth of approximately 7 percent in 2015, lower than the goal of around 7.5 percent in 2014, according to a government work report to be delivered by Premier Li Keqiang at the parliament's annual session Thursday.
Highlights of Chinese government work report for 2015
Following are highlights of the Chinese government work report distributed Thursday morning to the press ahead of the annual session of the National People's Congress.
China defense budget growth at five-year low
China will raise its defense budget by around 10 percent this year, its slowest increase in five years.
HK politics, reforms discussed
The chairman of China's top legislature on Wednesday met with political advisers from Hong Kong to discuss the city's political development and relations with the Chinese mainland.
China's defense budget growth rate drops to around 10 pct
China will raise its defense budget by around 10 percent this year, compared with last year's 12.2 percent, a spokeswoman for the annual session of the country's top legislature said Wednesday.
On the Chinese economy
China is still facing a severe situation this year, and efforts should be made to keep the economic growth within a reasonable range.
Voices
Here are some of the highlighted opinions from the legislators Wednesday.
Domestic violence bill on NPC's docket
China's first bill meant to combat domestic violence is likely to be tabled for a first reading in August, said a spokeswoman for the country's top legislature Wednesday.
China unifies thinking to withstand cooling economy
About 3,000 national legislators have gathered in Beijing for the third session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), which starts Thursday, to discuss and unify thinking on issues concerning development and the economy.
NPC Q&A: How are NPC deputies elected?
The 12th National People's Congress (NPC), China's national legislature, now has 2,964 deputies for a five-year term since 2013.
China mulls blueprint for manufacturing industry
A blueprint for upgrading China's manufacturing industry by 2025 is in the pipeline and will be submitted to the country's cabinet for deliberation in the near future, a member of the country's top political advisory body said Wednesday.
On the pension fund
The excessively high mandatory contribution rate for employers and employees to the pension fund, which is 40 percent at my company, has become a heavy burden especially for struggling manufacturing firms in China and should be lowered, because it has even affected their efforts to expand production and conduct industrial upgrading.
Chinese leaders call for implementation of 'Four Comprehensives'
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and other leaders on Wednesday vowed to fully implement the "four comprehensives" strategic layout in order to realize economic and social development targets.
Schedules for NPC, CPPCC annual sessions -- March 5
Following are the schedules for the third sessions of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) and the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on Thursday.
Income, corruption top concerns for two sessions: Polls
The public are most concerned that income distribution and countercorruption are discussed at the ongoing two sessions, online polls have shown.
Xi stresses cross-Strait peaceful development, urges vigilance against Taiwan independence
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday stressed the peaceful development of the cross-Strait ties, urging high vigilance against the Taiwan independence.
NPC Q&A: What's the difference between NPC motions and CPPCC proposals?
There is a substantial difference between motions submitted to a session of the National People's Congress (NPC) and proposals to the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
Agenda set for China's legislative session
China's national legislators elected a presidium Wednesday and set the agenda for the legislature's annual session, which is to open Thursday.
Yao Ming, Liu Xiang voice opinions at China's political advisory session
Former NBA star Yao Ming urged students to be good at one sport at least while former Olympic champion Liu Xiang called for retired athletes to join in China's budding sport industry.
China justifies counterterrorism law, slams US accusation
China on Wednesday justified the drafting of its first counterterrorism law, saying that the part concerning the Internet tech firms doing business in the country is in line with laws and international practice.
China needs series of laws on national security: NPC spokesperson
China needs to formulate a series of laws to build a national security legal system, a spokesperson for the annual session of China's top legislative body said on Wednesday.
China to fully implement law-based taxation by 2020: NPC spokesperson
China aims at fully implementing law-based taxation by 2020, and the conditions for this effort is gradually becoming ripe, a spokesperson for China's top legislature said on Wednesday.
NPC Q&A: What are the powers of the NPC?
The third session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) is scheduled to open in Beijing on March 5.
In China's political system, the NPC is an arrangement enabling Chinese citizens to exercise their power as "the master of state". They are represented by NPC deputies elected through a carefully designed democratic procedure.
China shares rally ahead of parliamentary session
Chinese shares rallied on Wednesday as expectations ran high for new reform measures ahead of the annual parliamentary session slated to open on Thursday.
NPC Q&A: What's up at this year's NPC session?
The third session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC), the national legislature of China, will open in Beijing on Thursday.
China pledges global anti-corruption network
China pledged to build a global anti-corruption cooperation network and is mulling legislation on international criminal and judicial cooperation, a spokesperson for the annual session of China's top legislative body said Wednesday.
Draft amendments to Legislation Law to be reviewed at full parliamentary session: spokeswoman
Chinese legislators will review draft amendments to the Legislation Law at the upcoming annual full session of the country's top legislature, a spokeswoman said Wednesday.
Smog issues spark debate
Environmental protection has become a hot topic during this year's two sessions, which kicked off on Tuesday, with several legislators and political advisers raising their proposals on the issue.
'No further adjustments to family planning policy'
China will not make further adjustments to its family planning policy to allow all couples to have a second child in 2015, a health official said on Tuesday.
China's parliamentary session in countdown
The last batch of about 3,000 national legislators arrived in Chinese capital of Beijing on Tuesday afternoon for the annual parliamentary session slated from Thursday to March 15.
State-owned firms' overseas assets not audited: report
China has not audited over 4 trillion yuan ($639.6 billion) of assets held by State-owned enterprises (SOE) overseas, China Youth Daily reported Tuesday, highlighting difficulties faced by the government when expanding its anti-corruption drive to SOEs.
Suning boss wants accountability mechanism
The creation of an accountability mechanism in which e-commerce platform operators take responsibility for consumer fraud should be implemented across the e-commerce sector, said Zhang Jindong, chairman of household appliance retailer Suning Commerce Group Co, in a proposal.
Proposals
Here are some of the highlighted proposals submitted by political advisers.
Top political advisory body to discuss reform
Unfazed by downward pressure on economy, China's top political advisor Yu Zhengsheng pledged Tuesday further efforts to help advance reforms at the start of the most important two weeks on China's political calendar this year.
Schedules for NPC, CPPCC annual sessions -- March 4
Following are the schedules for the third sessions of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) and the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on Wednesday.
China's top political advisory body starts annual session
The Third Session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the country's top political advisory body, opened Tuesday in Beijing, kicking off the most important two weeks on China's political calendar this year.
Reform tops political advisors' agenda in 2014
About one sixth of the proposals from China's national political advisors in 2014 went to reforms, said a report here Tuesday.
14 national political advisors down in anti-graft blitz
A total of 14 national political advisors were expelled due to corruption, said Yu Zhengsheng, China's top political advisor Tuesday.
China's national legislature has 2,964 deputies
The 12th National People's Congress (NPC) currently has 2,964 deputies, according to a statement issued by the NPC Standing Committee on Tuesday.
A-Z of 'two sessions' talking points
The plenary sessions of the National People's Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People' s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), popularly known as the "two sessions", will kick off this week. What will be the big talking points? Xinhua has compiled a list of 26 hot topics.
Backgrounder: Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference
The Third Session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) is to open in Beijing on Tuesday.
Japan asked to take history as mirror
Japan should take the history as a mirror and "follow the path of peaceful development" to win trust from the international community, a spokesman for China's top political advisory body said in Beijing Monday.
Schedules for NPC, CPPCC annual sessions -- March 3
Following are the schedules for the third sessions of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) and the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on Tuesday.
More Taiwan people to benefit from peaceful cross-Strait relations: spokesman
The Chinese mainland will take more measures this year to enable more Taiwan people to share fruits of the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, a spokesman for the Chinese political advisory body said Monday.
Winter Olympics bidding to speed up China's air pollution control: spokesman
Smog-choked Beijing's bid to host the 2022 Winter Olympic Games is expected to accelerate the city and China's air pollution control process, spokesman for the annual session of China's top political advisory body said Monday.
Silk Road initiatives not China's Marshall Plan: spokesman
China's Silk Road initiatives should not be referred to as another Marshall Plan, said a spokesman with the country's national political advisory body Monday.
Supreme procuratorate handles 101 proposals from congress, advisory body
China's Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP) last year handled 101 proposals and suggestions from the country's top legislative and political advisory bodies.
Muslim mosques in Xinjiang 10 times those 30 years ago: spokesman
Northwest China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region has over 20,000 mosques, 10 times as many as it had more than three decades ago, spokesman for the annual session of China's top political advisory body said Monday.
China targeting ETIM in global counter-terrorism cooperation: spokesman
China has set the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) as the major target when seeking international cooperation against terrorism last year, a spokesman for the country's top political advisory body said Monday.
No one has impunity in anti-corruption drive: spokesman
China's anti-corruption effort "has no limit or ceiling" and "no one has impunity," a spokesman of the Chinese political advisory body said on Monday.
China may further lower growth target for 2015: Experts
China may further lower its economic growth target for 2015 during the upcoming legislative session, foreign and domestic experts predict.
More reforms expected from legislative sessions to bolster growth
China's upcoming annual legislative session is expected to see more reforms as economic weakening calls for renewed efforts of reviving growth engines.
Key HK, Taiwan topics to be discussed at March meetings
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and Taiwan will be a focus for lawmakers and political advisors' meetings in Beijing next week.
'Two sessions' anticipated amid new political, economic landscape
Despite there being no change in government on the agenda, China's routine March meetings -- dubbed the "two sessions" -- are set to be closely watched as the country's political and economic dynamics are changing significantly.
Chinese lawmakers discuss forthcoming parliamentary session
Members of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) discussed a draft report on their work on Thursday.
China's economic and social development in 2014
China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) on Thursday released a report on the country's economic and social development in 2014.
China's top legislature opens bi-monthly session
A bi-monthly session of China's top legislature opened on Wednesday, which will prepare for the upcoming annual parliamentary session, and continue the review on draft legislation for the country's first counterterrorism law.
HK lawmaker voted out of CPPCC
A Hong Kong lawmaker was voted out of China's top political advisory body on Wednesday, after he urged Hong Kong's chief executive Leung Chun-ying to resign following ongoing protests.
CPPCC set to expel disgraced former official from body
China's top political consultative body Tuesday approved a draft expelling Ling Jihua from the body.
CPPCC holds New Year gathering for widows of luminaries
China's top political advisory body held a New Year gathering for spouses of late renowned figures as well as national political advisors who were not members of the Communist Party of China (CPC) on Tuesday.
Former Chinese political advisor removed from NPC
Su Rong, a former senior Chinese political advisor, was Thursday removed from his post as deputy to the National People's Congress (NPC), the country's top legislature.
NPC hears reports on judicial corruption, air pollution control
The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, heard reports on judicial corruption and air pollution control at its bimonthly session on Wednesday.
NPC expands public's right to sue govt
China's top legislature on Saturday adopted an amendment to the Administrative Procedure Law, which is expected to expand citizens' right to sue the government and reduce the number of petitions the government receives.
NPC members call for end to 'social maintenance fee'
Six members of the National People's Congress (NPC) have put forward suggestions to abolish “social maintenance fees,” the system used to fine people for violating China's family planning policy, while a draft regulation on fee collection has been opened to public opinion.
China vows responsibility to safeguard border stability
Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday expressed his strong resolve to safeguard stability in the border areas with Myanmar, after a recent bomb dropped by a warplane from the conflict-hit country killed five Chinese people in Southwest China's Yunnan Province.
Li offers reassurance on economy
The Third Session of the 12th National People's Congress concluded on Sunday. Premier Li Keqiang held a press conference on Sunday morning at which he dealt with various issues, economic questions in particular. The Global Times presents five of the key issues that were discussed.
Lawmakers propose birth defect interdiction
Several lawmakers have suggested that China should ramp up financial support for prenatal diagnosis to decrease the number of children born with birth defects in China, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Saturday.
Premier Li calls on retailers to put more focus on product quality
Retailers, both online or off-line, need to pay more attention to their products in order to protect consumers, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Sunday.
'Ample' tools for growth: Li
China has sufficient policy tools to keep its economy growing, Premier Li Keqiang said on Sunday, playing down concerns over slower growth in the world's second-largest economy.
China engaging in 5G telecom research, studies
China is engaged in tech research and market studies on next-generation mobile telecom networks, or 5G, which would be applied in fields including driverless vehicles, the country's vice-minister of industry and information technology said over the weekend.
Silk Road Fund to be run by market rules: chair
China's $40 billion Silk Road Fund will be operated under a market-oriented approach and the projects it plans to invest in will not be limited to countries along the “One Belt, One Road” route, the fund's chairperson said on Thursday.
Online finance regulation to be issued soon
Regulations for the oversight of the country's burgeoning online finance sector will soon be launched, industry watchers said on Wednesday.
New-energy vehicles exceeded 120,000 by 2014: minister
China has made substantial progress in the development of new-energy vehicles by putting more than 120,000 new-energy cars on the road by the end of 2014, the country's science and technology minister said Wednesday.
Vice finance minister denies QE rumor
China's vice finance minister on Wednesday denied a rumor that the country is planning to roll out a quantitative easing (QE) program.
SOE salary reform policies to be rolled out
China has implemented a new reform plan on payment to top executives at China's major State-owned enterprises (SOEs), and detailed policies to support the plan are likely to be announced later this month, the country's human resources minister said on Tuesday.
Futures industry opening can build on 'Belt and Road' initiative
The opening of China's futures industry to the global market could ride the wave of the nation's push for implementing the “One Belt, One Road” initiative, Yang Maijun, chairman of the Shanghai Futures Exchange (SHFE), said on Tuesday.
China aims to create e-commerce regulating law
China is pushing forward efforts to institute a law to regulate the country's booming e-commerce sector, the head of the country's commerce regulator said on Monday.
China's growth target reasonable, says Danish ambassador
China's annual economic growth target for 2015 is reasonable and shows the Chinese leadership's determination to achieve a sustainable economic model, Danish Ambassador to China Friis Arne Petersen said Monday.
Thin film solar power expected to be new driver for economy
China can build portable new energy into an industry with global comparative edges as a means to boost growth and reduce pollution, the head of a Chinese renewable energy giant said on Monday.
More female deputies at NPC
The rise of the number of female deputies in China's top legislature indicates women's increasing significance in China's political arena, observers have noted during the recent meetings of the country's top legislatures.
'Celebrity journalism' at meetings in the spotlight
At the annual two sessions, NPC deputies and CPPCC members gather in Beijing to discuss State issues, but too often they themselves become the focus of media attention.
China confident of meeting 6% annual trade growth target
China is confident of meeting its annual foreign trade growth target of 6 percent in 2015 despite the persisting weak growth in global demand, the country's commerce ministry said over the weekend.
Shenzhen-HK scheme about ready for launch
The details of the stock scheme connecting the Shenzhen and Hong Kong bourses are now ready and the launch is pending approval by regulators of the two markets, Song Liping, general manager of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, said on Sunday.
China to accelerate price reform this year
China will accelerate price reform this year in sectors such as electric power, head of the country's top price regulator said Thursday.
China pledges to deepen economic reforms
In his government work report to the annual session of the National People's Congress (NPC) which opened Thursday, Premier Li Keqiang pledged fresh breakthroughs in major reforms, saying he would work to generate new momentum for development. The premier also vowed to improve China's economic structure while stabilizing growth. The following summarizes highlights from the work report, and offers analysis of key reforms on the agenda.
NPC mulls local lawmaking
Chinese legislators will review draft amendments to the Legislation Law at the upcoming annual full session of the country's top legislature, a spokeswoman said Wednesday.
Property industry set to receive policy boosts this year
More policy easing will be required for the country's cooling property sector, members of the National Committee of the CPPCC said on Wednesday.
On the agenda
With the recent economic data pointing to a soft start to the year, there is growing anticipation of more pro-growth measures in the pipeline. But how the cooling economy would be addressed at the ongoing annual legislative and political consultative sessions, and to what extent the economy would regain steam, remains the biggest question. The Global Times discusses four key issues facing the Chinese economy.
CPPCC work report stresses anti-graft
The chairman of China's top political advisory body on Tuesday called for unwavering efforts to crack down on corruption, with analysts believing that the remarks send a positive signal of more active participation in the nation's sweeping anti-graft campaign.
Diversity to boost CPPCC meeting
China's top political advisory body is scheduled to kick off its annual session on Tuesday, with members from more diverse backgrounds becoming increasingly active in China's social and political affairs which can only aid in China's progress, analysts said.
Two sessions preview: China at the crossroads of another wave of reforms
As the early March annual sessions of the NPC and the CPPCC approach, observers say China is at the crossroads of another wave of reforms, a response to changing problems.