New Ideologies, A New Journey: Embracing Whole-Process People’s Democracy to Amass Unstoppable Strength for National Renewal
General Secretary Xi Jinping has asserted that whole-process people’s democracy is an essential attribute of socialist democratic politics—the most extensive, authentic, and effective form of democracy. During the annual “Two Sessions,” delegates and committee members earnestly listen to public opinion, pool collective wisdom, speak their minds candidly, and offer constructive proposals. The aspirations of billions are continuously woven into the top-level design of Party and national development, vividly demonstrating the dynamic vitality of whole-process people’s democracy in the new era and amassing formidable strength for nation-building and the great rejuvenation of the country.
In the spirit of spring and with eyes set firmly on the future, nearly 3,000 National People’s Congress (NPC) representatives and more than 2,000 Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) members have converged in the capital, Beijing, to participate in this grand assembly and deliberate on national affairs.
Both the democratically elected NPC representatives and the consultatively recommended CPPCC members serve not only as the people’s confidants but also as leaders guiding the public. Each year, these representatives and committee members, driven by a profound sense of duty, actively propose policies and offer insights on a wide array of issues—from employment, income, and education to healthcare, elder care, and childcare.
Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, at every “Two Sessions,” General Secretary Xi Jinping has engaged in heartfelt exchanges and joint deliberations with the delegates. Through candid dialogue, warm interactions, and collective strategizing, our people’s leader exemplifies whole-process people’s democracy—listening broadly and gathering diverse wisdom—which reflects the intrinsic character and spirit of socialism with Chinese characteristics.
Numerous constructive proposals put forth by the delegates have, through the institutional mechanisms of the Two Sessions, received responses from various regions and departments and have been integrated into the formulation of policies and measures, thereby driving substantive resolutions to key issues.
At last year’s Two Sessions, NPC representative He Guanghua addressed the “charging anxiety” among new energy vehicle owners by proposing enhancements to charging and battery-swapping infrastructure. His suggestion captured the keen attention of the National Energy Administration and five other departments, prompting a series of policy measures to further advance the planning and construction of charging facilities. Building on further research, representative He Guanghua will continue to offer recommendations this year on how to better leverage the mobile energy storage potential of electric vehicles and enhance the application of vehicle-to-grid interaction technologies.
Similarly, during the previous session, CPPCC member and academician of the Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences Tang Xudong led 13 committee members in jointly submitting a proposal to address the weak grassroots service capacity and talent shortages in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). A year on, Tang and his colleagues are delighted to note that, through central transfer payments, 450 county-level TCM hospitals have embarked on the development of specialized TCM departments, nearly 42,000 TCM clinics have been established in grassroots healthcare institutions nationwide, and approximately 46,000 key professionals have been trained.
Through in-depth research and extensive consultation, the proposals and suggestions of these delegates have coalesced into a powerful force propelling economic and social progress. According to statistics, during the second session of the 14th National People’s Congress in 2024, NPC representatives, in the full exercise of their duties, submitted 9,235 recommendations, criticisms, and opinions, which were subsequently assigned to 213 agencies for review and action. In the past year alone, over 2,000 CPPCC members submitted more than 5,000 proposals—many of which have been incorporated into policy documents, thereby playing an active role in fostering scientifically informed and democratic decision-making.
Tomorrow, our network will broadcast live the opening ceremony of the third session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee. The session is set to commence at 3:00 PM on March 4 in Beijing, where CPPCC Chairman Wang Huning will deliver a report on the work of the Standing Committee. The live broadcast will be carried on by China Central Television’s comprehensive, news, Chinese International, all foreign-language, and 4K Ultra HD channels, along with live transmissions on China National Radio’s China Voice, Greater Bay Area Voice, and China International Radio’s Global Radio News. Additionally, key central new media platforms such as CCTV News, its online video platform, and the CCTV website will simultaneously relay the proceedings.
An editorial in People’s Daily—titled “Uniting a Broad Consensus and Amassing Tremendous Strength – Hearty Congratulations on the Opening of the Third Session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee”—to be published tomorrow (March 4), emphasizes that by further uniting hearts and strengthening the grand unity among all ethnic groups in the country, as well as among Chinese people at home and abroad, the CPPCC, with its illustrious mission and enduring responsibilities, must earnestly shoulder the political duty of implementing the Party Central Committee’s decisions and the mandates for CPPCC work. In doing so, it will undoubtedly consolidate broader public support, forge a wide-ranging consensus, and harness collective wisdom and strength to advance Chinese-style modernization.
Press Conference for the Third Session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee Held Today
This afternoon (March 3), the press conference for the Third Session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference was convened. During the briefing, spokesperson Liu Jieyi announced that the session will commence at 3:00 PM on March 4 at the Great Hall of the People and will conclude on the morning of March 10, spanning a total of six days.
When addressing reporters’ inquiries, Liu noted that the past year marked both the 75th anniversary of the CPPCC’s founding and a critical period for realizing the objectives set forth in the 14th Five-Year Plan. Over the course of the year, the CPPCC has steadfastly enhanced its capacity for effective performance through a spirit of reform and innovation, actively offering policy recommendations and broadly building consensus. Its deliberations have concentrated on pivotal challenges such as advancing a uniquely Chinese model of modernization, deepening comprehensive reforms, promoting high-quality development, and safeguarding social harmony and stability.
At the press conference, the spokesperson also fielded questions from both domestic and international journalists on topics including the pursuit of high-quality economic development and the promotion of traditional Chinese culture.
Representative Performance Story: Gao Huairui – Trailblazing New Leadership in On-Demand Domestic Services
In today’s “Representative Performance Story,” we spotlight an adept professional from the domestic services sector—National People’s Congress representative Gao Huairui. A distinguished recipient of the National May 1st Labor Medal, Gao began her career as an entry-level domestic worker and has steadily evolved into a consummate expert in her field. Recently, she has been diligently training newly recruited on-demand domestic service providers, equipping them with essential service skills and guiding them in navigating online order platforms.
In recent years, as the platform economy has surged, the number of on-demand domestic workers and other emerging employment categories has risen dramatically. Enhancing the professional competencies of these workers remains a constant priority for Gao. At the 2024 National “Two Sessions,” she proposed recommendations to “develop and refine the vocational education system for domestic services to foster sustainable industry growth.” Her proposals have been embraced by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, the Ministry of Education, and other relevant agencies, subsequently being transformed into concrete policy measures.
Furthermore, her research revealed that the demand for childcare services for infants aged 0 to 3 years—as well as eldercare—has escalated rapidly, even though current community services remain relatively limited. At this year’s National “Two Sessions,” she intends to offer further suggestions on invigorating emerging employment sectors and innovating service models.
Robust Growth in China’s Emerging Service Sector
According to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics and the recently published National Economic Census, the operational scale of China’s tertiary industry has steadily expanded, with emerging service sectors exhibiting particularly vigorous growth. These burgeoning industries have become a critical engine driving economic expansion and facilitating full employment.
Over the five-year period covered by the fifth National Economic Census, the number of legal entities engaged in tertiary industry activities increased by 9.222 million—an impressive 53.7% surge—while employment in the sector grew by 25.6%. Even as traditional service industries continue to develop steadily, the new service sectors have surged ahead. Revenues in the information transmission, software, and information technology services industries soared by 117.0%, those in scientific research and technical services climbed by 92.5%, and leasing and business services increased by 88.1%. Notably, nearly half of the new jobs created in the tertiary sector during this period were in these emerging fields. The momentum toward high-end development in the service industry is also accelerating; high-tech service enterprises now account for over one-quarter of all large-scale service providers and have achieved a revenue increase of 101.5%, thereby providing robust support for the rapid formation of new productive forces.
Enhanced Financial Support for Private Enterprises by Multiple Agencies
Recently, the People’s Bank of China along with several other government bodies affirmed their commitment to resolutely address the challenges of high financing costs and difficulties faced by private enterprises. Their joint objective is to cultivate a more conducive development environment for the private sector.
The People’s Bank of China emphasized its plan to implement a moderately accommodative monetary policy and effectively leverage structural monetary policy tools to increase credit supply to private and small-to-medium enterprises. In addition, it will execute 25 targeted measures designed to bolster financial support for the private economy, while simultaneously reinforcing the institutional framework and product innovation in the bond market.
Both the China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission and the China Securities Regulatory Commission stated that efforts will be intensified to further streamline diversified financing channels—including equity, bond, and loan avenues—for private enterprises, as well as to amplify investments in various financial resources. They also stressed the importance of rigorously implementing policies such as the “Eight Measures for the Sci-Tech Innovation Board” and the “Six Measures for Mergers and Acquisitions,” which are intended to empower private enterprises to thrive via the capital markets.
Several financial institutions have indicated that they will further bolster credit support for private enterprises in the near future. Notably, the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) has announced plans to provide private companies with at least 6 trillion yuan (approximately $870 billion) in investment and financing over the next three years, while also increasing the availability of credit and medium- to long-term funds to help these enterprises consolidate their core operations and strengthen their industrial foundations.
Trade-In Policy Fuels the Rapid Advancement of the Green Circular Economy
Under the national trade-in policy, China’s home appliance recycling industry has witnessed remarkable growth. As the market expands, it simultaneously accelerates the development of the nation’s green circular economy.
At a waste mobile phone recycling facility, reporters observed fully automated production lines where robots meticulously inspect each discarded phone. From the exterior and display to the buttons and camera, every device undergoes more than 70 detailed examinations.
According to statistics from the China Circular Economy Association, since the implementation of the trade-in policy, the market for recycling obsolete electronic appliances has expanded continuously. In 2024, the volume of recycled home appliances increased by 14.83% year-over-year, while the number of properly dismantled appliances rose by 20%. This significant surge in recycling has driven constant technological innovation in the circular reuse of electronic products.
For instance, at the country’s first integrated home appliance recycling facility in Qingdao, Shandong, up to 2 million appliances are disassembled annually, yielding 30,000 tons of recycled new materials. These discarded appliances are precisely deconstructed into materials such as copper, iron, aluminum, and plastics, achieving a recycling rate of over 95%. Similarly, at a facility in Tianjin, every discarded mobile phone—right from doorstep collection and logistics, through sorting and dismantling, to melting in the furnace—is monitored by video surveillance and tracked via data systems, allowing consumers to view the entire process through a mobile application.
This year, the state will further enhance technological research on major recycling equipment, boosting both the efficiency and technical level of recycling processes. Support will also be extended for the development of high-caliber recycling projects, with the central government allocating special funds to promote the recycling and processing of discarded electronic appliances, thereby nurturing a robust and healthy industry.
Crew for Shenzhou 20 and 21 Selected; Training Now Underway
Today (March 3), the China Manned Space Engineering Office announced that in 2025, China will launch the Shenzhou 20 and Shenzhou 21 manned spacecraft alongside a cargo vessel. The astronaut crews for this second manned spaceflight mission have already been chosen and are currently undergoing training. During the mission, the primary objectives will be to conduct extravehicular activities (EVAs) for the astronauts and to execute airlock operations for cargo transfer, in addition to continuing space science experiments, technical trials, platform management, astronaut support, and public outreach in science education. At present, the China Space Station is operating steadily and efficiently, with over 180 in-orbit space science research and application projects covering space life sciences, human physiology, microgravity physics, and cutting-edge space technologies—yielding numerous groundbreaking achievements.
Reconstruction Launched in Tibet’s Dingri Following the 6.8-Magnitude Earthquake
Today (March 3), post-earthquake reconstruction efforts have been initiated in Gulong Village, Changsuo Township, Dingri, Tibet, following the 6.8-magnitude earthquake. The reconstruction project encompasses eight entire villages in Changsuo Township, including Gulong Village, and involves the rebuilding of residential structures and related infrastructure. Given that housing is the primary focus of the recovery, local authorities have developed scientifically grounded reconstruction plans, coordinated the construction of essential infrastructure, and adopted a dual approach that combines centralized standardized planning with local self-managed construction. This strategy is designed to ensure that affected residents can soon move into safe and comfortable new homes.
Former Qinghai Official Yang Faseng Expelled from the Party and Dismissed from Public Office for Serious Disciplinary and Legal Violations
Recently, with the approval of the Central Committee, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the National Supervisory Commission initiated an investigation into serious disciplinary and legal violations by Yang Faseng, a former member of the Qinghai Provincial Party Standing Committee and ex-Secretary of the Political and Legal Affairs Commission, who also served as an alternate member of the 20th Central Committee.
The investigation revealed that Yang Faseng lost his ideological conviction and abandoned his original mission. He demonstrated disloyalty and insincerity toward the Party and failed to uphold the strict governance responsibilities expected of him. Yang breached the Party’s eight-point regulations by accepting banquets and travel arrangements that could compromise his impartiality, and he illicitly borrowed vehicles. During interviews, he did not provide truthful accounts of issues and, in the process of cadre selection and appointment, sought benefits for others while accepting bribes. Moreover, he violated the baseline of integrity by improperly receiving and offering cash gifts, engaging in profit-seeking activities, and exploiting his position to facilitate improper transactions in engineering contracts and business operations—all while unlawfully accepting vast sums of money.
Yang Faseng’s actions represent grave violations of the Party’s political, organizational, integrity, and lifestyle disciplines, amounting to severe misconduct and suspected bribery. His conduct, which has persisted unabated since the 18th Party Congress, has had a profoundly negative impact and warrants stringent disciplinary measures. In accordance with the “Disciplinary Regulations of the Communist Party of China,” the “Supervision Law of the People’s Republic of China,” and the “Regulations on Administrative Sanctions for Public Officials,” the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the Politburo have resolved to expel Yang Faseng from the Party; the National Supervisory Commission has dismissed him from public office; his delegate status at the 20th Party Congress has been terminated; his illicit gains will be confiscated; and his suspected criminal activities will be referred to the procuratorate for further legal proceedings, with all associated assets transferred accordingly. His expulsion from the Party will be formally ratified at the next plenary meeting of the Central Committee.
Domestic National News Update
China Tops Global Rankings in Agricultural Insurance Premiums for 2024
According to the National Financial Supervision Administration, in 2024 China amassed approximately 150 billion yuan in agricultural insurance premiums, delivering over 5 trillion yuan in risk protection. This remarkable scale positions China as the world leader in agricultural insurance. Over the past five years, premium revenues have surged at an average annual growth rate of 16.2%, reflecting a vigorous expansion.
Systematic Upgrading of Barrier-Free Facilities Underway
The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development recently announced that this year China will systematically advance the renovation and enhancement of barrier-free facilities. Local authorities are expected to devise tailored plans, with a special focus on retrofitting older multi-story urban residential complexes with elevators, as well as upgrading pedestrian overpasses and underground passages along major thoroughfares, commercial zones, and large residential areas.
Nationwide Rollout of Centralized Cochlear Implant Procurement Results
Starting this month, the winning bids from the centralized procurement of cochlear implants will be implemented nationwide. At the end of last year, the state procured 11,000 sets of cochlear implant consumables, slashing the average unit price from over 200,000 yuan to approximately 50,000 yuan. This procurement includes the latest generation implants, which are MRI-compatible, thereby addressing the needs of a broader range of hearing-impaired patients.
Shenzhen Unveils Progressive Measures to Enhance the Business Environment
Shenzhen has recently introduced a new round of initiatives to optimize its business climate. The plan targets five key areas—government services, innovation services, talent services, financing services, and spatial services—to provide entrepreneurs with bespoke, precision-driven support.
Domestic ‘Silk Road Maritime E-Commerce Express’ Shatters Export Records
Xiamen Customs reports that since its launch in 2023, China’s inaugural “Silk Road Maritime E-Commerce Express” has completed 126 voyages, processed 93,000 TEUs, and handled goods valued at 14.71 billion yuan. Notably, cross-border e-commerce exports have exceeded 2 million items, marking a new milestone.
Key Milestone Reached in the Huai River to Sea Waterway Phase II Project
At the Huaian hub, the embankment for the Beijing-Hangzhou Canal—a critical component of the second phase of the Huai River to Sea Waterway project—was successfully closed yesterday (March 2), ushering in the peak phase of main construction. Once completed, the project will markedly alleviate flood control and drainage pressures in the Huai River’s middle reaches while establishing favorable conditions for sea-bound navigation along the Grand Canal.
Flagship Wild Species Populations Continue to Grow
The National Forestry and Grassland Administration reports that the populations of China’s flagship wild animal and plant species have been steadily increasing, accompanied by progressive improvements in their habitats. Iconic species such as the giant panda, snow leopard, Siberian tiger, and Asian elephant are on an upward trajectory, and 206 endangered plant species are now under effective protection.
Television Drama “Beishang” Premieres Tonight on CCTV’s Comprehensive Channel
Tonight (March 3), the drama “Beishang” will air during prime time on CCTV’s Comprehensive Channel. Set against the historical tapestry of the Canal Economic Belt’s century-long rise and fall, the series chronicles the intertwined journeys of six youths as they grow, forge enduring bonds, and venture northward—capturing the fervor and dynamism of a new era.
Global Stakeholders Anticipate China’s Two Sessions to Spur Worldwide Growth
International observers are closely watching the forthcoming Chinese Two Sessions, expressing confidence that China’s commitment to high-quality development—and its dedication to ensuring that the benefits of progress are shared by all—will inject fresh momentum into global growth. Many believe that China’s wealth of developmental experience and strategic foresight continually offer valuable lessons for other nations, and they look forward to deepening exchanges and cooperation across various sectors.
International Broadcast News Flash
Russia Claims Multi-Directional Offensives Against Ukrainian Forces; Ukraine Reports Destruction of Russian Rocket Launcher Systems and More
On March 2, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced that its forces launched multiple offensives along the fronts in Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Kherson, and Luhansk. According to Russian officials, these operations resulted in the destruction of Ukrainian infantry fighting vehicles, artillery pieces, as well as electronic base stations and supply depots. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff reported that 72 engagements occurred along the frontline that day, with Ukrainian troops in the Kupiansk and Pokrovsk sectors successfully neutralizing Russian tanks, armored vehicles, rocket launcher systems, and other military assets.
London Summit: Continued Support for Ukraine Amid Accusations of Prolonging the Conflict
Leaders from over a dozen nations—including the United Kingdom, France, Ukraine, and Canada—as well as representatives from the European Union and NATO convened in London on March 2 to discuss Ukraine and broader European defense issues. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak unveiled a four-point plan that includes sustained military support for Ukraine, facilitating a peace agreement under Ukrainian leadership, and forming an alliance to safeguard the accord. Sunak noted that participating countries, including the UK and France, will work in concert with Ukraine to draft a ceasefire proposal and engage in discussions with the United States. On March 3, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stressed that peace is imperative for Ukraine and that robust security guarantees are crucial to achieving it. However, Russia’s permanent representative to international organizations in Vienna, Ulyanov, contended that some European leaders are attempting to prolong the conflict. In addition, summit attendees agreed that Europe must augment its defense spending and further strengthen its autonomous defense capabilities.
Russian Aerospace Forces Successfully Launch Military Satellite
The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that on March 3, the Russian Aerospace Forces executed a space launch from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. Utilizing a “Soyuz” carrier rocket, they successfully delivered a military satellite into its designated orbit. The ministry did not disclose further details regarding the satellite’s mission.
Widespread Opposition to Suspension of Supplies into the Gaza Strip
On March 2, Israel decided to halt all deliveries of supplies into the Gaza Strip, citing Hamas’s refusal to accept a temporary ceasefire as justification. A spokesperson for Hamas denounced the move as a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement. The Palestinian National Council issued a statement accusing Israel of using this measure as part of a broader plan to forcibly relocate Gaza’s residents, openly contravening international law. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies warned that this decision will plunge millions of Gazans—who have been enduring severe hardship for over a year—into renewed peril. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called for the immediate resumption of humanitarian aid into the region.
Wildfires Force South Carolina into a State of Emergency
On March 2, wildfires continued to ravage South Carolina, with over 175 fires reported across the state. Governor McMaster declared a state of emergency in response to the escalating blazes, which have already consumed approximately 6.5 square kilometers of forest land, according to local forestry officials. Similarly, North Carolina is grappling with wildfires that have burned more than 2.2 square kilometers, with the fires remaining largely uncontrollable.
China in Spring
As spring returns and nature awakens, China’s vast landscape bursts into bloom. In our final segment, we invite you to join us on a journey into “China in Spring,” where renewal and vibrant life herald the season’s promise.