The Third Session of the Fourteenth National People’s Congress Opens in Beijing
On the morning of March 5, the Third Session of the Fourteenth National People’s Congress (NPC) commenced with grandeur at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Nearly 3,000 NPC deputies, entrusted with the aspirations of the Chinese people, gathered to fulfill the sacred duties conferred upon them by the Constitution and the law.
The atmosphere in the auditorium of the Great Hall of the People was both solemn and vibrant. The national emblem, prominently displayed at the center of the presidium’s backdrop, harmonized splendidly with the pentagram chandelier adorning the dome of the venue.
Zhao Leji, Standing Chairman and Executive Chairman of the Presidium, presided over the session. Alongside him at the executive chairmen’s seats were fellow Standing Chairmen and Executive Chairmen Li Hongzhong, Wang Dongming, Xiao Jie, Zheng Jianbang, Ding Zhongli, Hao Mingjin, Cai Dafeng, He Wei, Wu Weihua, Tie Ning, Peng Qinghua, Zhang Qingwei, Losang Jamcan, Shohrat Zakir, and Liu Qi. President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, Han Zheng, and other members of the Presidium took their places on the rostrum.
Of the 2,929 deputies expected to attend the Third Session of the Fourteenth NPC, 2,880 were present at the morning meeting on March 5, with 49 absent. The attendance met the quorum required by law.
At 9 a.m., Zhao Leji declared the opening of the Third Session of the Fourteenth National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China. The assembly rose in unison, their voices resonating through the hall as they sang the national anthem.
Per the session’s agenda, Premier Li Qiang delivered the Government Work Report on behalf of the State Council. The report was divided into three sections: a review of the work in 2024, the overall requirements and policy orientations for economic and social development in 2025, and the government’s tasks for 2025.
In his address, Premier Li Qiang underscored that the past year had been an extraordinary chapter in China’s development journey. Amid a complex and challenging landscape marked by mounting external pressures and increasing domestic difficulties, the nation, under the resolute leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, forged ahead with determination and resilience. The Chinese people of all ethnic groups surmounted obstacles, achieving overall economic stability with steady progress. The primary goals and tasks for economic and social development were successfully accomplished, high-quality development advanced robustly, and new quality productive forces emerged steadily. China’s economic, scientific, and comprehensive national strength continued to grow, marking new strides in Chinese-style modernization and reinforcing the nation’s resolve and confidence in building a modern socialist country in the new era.
Premier Li emphasized that over the past year, the government had diligently studied and implemented Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, staunchly upheld the authority and centralized leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, and integrated Party leadership into every facet and phase of government work. In line with the decisions and deployments of the Party Central Committee, the government comprehensively executed the spirit of the 20th National Congress and the Second and Third Plenums of the 20th Central Committee. Key efforts included: first, enhancing and innovating macroeconomic regulation in response to evolving circumstances to bolster economic recovery; second, unwaveringly deepening reform and expanding openness to invigorate endogenous development momentum; third, vigorously promoting innovation-driven development to optimize and upgrade industrial structures; fourth, coordinating urban-rural and regional development to refine economic layouts; fifth, actively advancing social programs to enhance people’s well-being; sixth, strengthening environmental protection to elevate green and low-carbon development; and seventh, improving government capacity and governance innovation to maintain social harmony and stability.
While acknowledging achievements, Premier Li candidly noted the challenges ahead. He stressed the importance of confronting difficulties head-on while maintaining unwavering confidence in development.
This year, marking the final year of the “14th Five-Year Plan,” Premier Li outlined the main anticipated targets for 2025: a GDP growth rate of around 5%; an urban surveyed unemployment rate of approximately 5.5%, with over 12 million new urban jobs created; a consumer price increase of about 2%; resident income growth synchronized with economic growth; a basic balance in international payments; grain output of around 1.4 trillion jin (700 million tons); a 3% reduction in energy consumption per unit of GDP; and continued improvement in environmental quality.
To achieve these objectives, Premier Li emphasized the need to thoroughly implement Xi Jinping’s economic thought, prioritize high-quality development, and balance quality-driven victories with scale effects, ensuring both qualitative improvements and reasonable quantitative growth.
Given the formidable tasks ahead for 2025, Premier Li proposed focusing on key priorities, including: robustly boosting consumption and improving investment efficiency to expand domestic demand comprehensively; fostering new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions to accelerate the development of a modern industrial system; deepening the strategy of rejuvenating the nation through science and education to enhance the overall efficacy of the national innovation system; expediting landmark reform measures to leverage economic system reforms as a catalyst; expanding high-level openness to stabilize foreign trade and investment; effectively mitigating risks in key areas to safeguard against systemic risks; advancing agricultural and rural work to promote comprehensive rural revitalization; facilitating new-type urbanization and coordinated regional development to optimize spatial development patterns; synergizing carbon reduction, pollution control, and green growth to accelerate a comprehensive green transition; and intensifying efforts to ensure and improve people’s livelihoods while enhancing social governance.
In his report, Premier Li also elaborated on strengthening government self-improvement, addressing ethnic, religious, and overseas Chinese affairs, advancing national defense and military development, supporting the progress of Hong Kong and Macao and cross-strait relations, and articulating China’s foreign policy.
The session also reviewed the State Council’s reports on the execution of the 2024 national economic and social development plan and the draft plan for 2025, as well as the execution of the 2024 central and local budgets and the draft budgets for 2025.
On behalf of the NPC Standing Committee, Vice Chairman Li Hongzhong presented an explanation of the draft amendments to the Law on Deputies to the National People’s Congress and Local People’s Congresses. He noted that this law serves as the foundational legal framework for regulating and ensuring deputies’ lawful exercise of their powers, fulfillment of obligations, and performance of roles. Its enactment has played a vital role in enabling deputies to carry out their duties and ensuring the people’s mastery of the state. To fully implement Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and President Xi’s important expositions on upholding and improving the people’s congress system, as well as to align with the Party Central Committee’s major decisions, timely amendments to the law are necessary. These revisions aim to promote high-quality deputy work, fully leverage the people’s congress system’s distinct advantages, and reflect the imperatives of adhering to Party leadership, advancing socialist political development with Chinese characteristics, and fostering whole-process people’s democracy. The draft amendments, comprising 34 articles, include provisions to enrich the general principles, deepen mechanisms for deputies’ engagement with constituents and constituencies, enhance capacity-building for deputies, refine their roles during and between congress sessions, improve safeguards for their duties, streamline the handling of deputies’ proposals and suggestions, strengthen oversight of their performance, and incorporate updates related to the supervisory system reform.
Also seated on the rostrum were Ma Xingrui, Wang Yi, Yin Li, Shi Taifeng, Liu Guozhong, Li Ganjie, Li Shulei, He Weidong, He Lifeng, Zhang Youxia, Zhang Guoqing, Chen Wenqing, Chen Jining, Chen Min’er, Yuan Jiajun, Huang Kunming, Liu Jinguo, Wang Xiaohong, Wu Zhenglong, Shen Yiqin, Zhang Jun, Ying Yong, Hu Chunhua, Shen Yueyue, Wang Yong, Zhou Qiang, Pagbalha Geleg Namgyal, Ho Hau Wah, Leung Chun-ying, Bater, Su Hui, Shao Hong, Gao Yunlong, Chen Wu, Mu Hong, Xian Hui, Wang Dongfeng, Jiang Xinzhi, Jiang Zuojun, He Baoxiang, Wang Guangqian, Qin Boyong, Zhu Yongxin, Yang Zhen, and Central Military Commission members Liu Zhenli and Zhang Shengmin.
Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive John Lee and Macao SAR Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai attended the session and were seated on the rostrum. Members of the Third Session of the Fourteenth National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) observed the proceedings. Representatives from central and state organs, relevant military and armed police units, and people’s organizations either attended or audited the session, joined by foreign diplomatic envoys in China.
Xi Jinping Urges Economically Robust Provinces to Shoulder Greater Responsibility for National Development During Jiangsu Delegation Review
On the afternoon of March 5, Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, participated in a deliberation with the Jiangsu delegation at the Third Session of the Fourteenth National People’s Congress (NPC). He emphasized that to successfully achieve the development goals of the “14th Five-Year Plan,” economically powerful provinces must take on a leading role. Jiangsu, he noted, should strategically focus its efforts: spearheading the integration of scientific, technological, and industrial innovation; boldly advancing deep-seated reforms and high-level openness; proactively implementing major national development strategies; and setting an example in promoting common prosperity for all.
The Jiangsu delegation’s deliberation was earnest and lively. Representatives Zhao Jianjun, Xu Guanghui, Zhang Junjie, Li Xiaona, Miao Hangen, and Ke Jun spoke on topics ranging from accelerating green and low-carbon transformation, establishing an industrial science and technology innovation hub, advancing translational medicine, building harmonious communities, revitalizing traditional industries, to preserving and promoting traditional opera.
After listening to their remarks, Xi Jinping delivered his address. He began by endorsing the Government Work Report and commending Jiangsu’s achievements, expressing hope that the province would fulfill its pivotal role and achieve even greater successes.
Xi highlighted that scientific, technological, and industrial innovation forms the cornerstone of developing new quality productive forces. For scientific and technological innovation, he advocated a holistic approach—integrating education, science, and talent development—to build a modern industrial system, yielding abundant research outcomes and translating them into tangible productivity. For industrial innovation, he stressed safeguarding the real economy as the foundation, simultaneously upgrading traditional industries and pioneering new tracks in strategic emerging and future industries. To fuse these two dimensions, he called for establishing platforms, refining institutional mechanisms, and reinforcing enterprises as the core of innovation, ensuring seamless alignment between the innovation and industrial chains.
Xi underscored that a large economy requires even greater momentum to advance. Jiangsu, he urged, should pioneer reforms, balancing internal strengthening with external outreach, continuously dismantling barriers and injecting vitality through deepened reform and openness. He called for a comprehensive, accurate, and thorough implementation of the new development philosophy, integrating domestic and international dynamics, promoting urban-rural integration and regional coordination, optimizing the layout of productive forces, and driving high-quality development. This includes deepening market-oriented reforms of production factors, dismantling local protectionism, market fragmentation, and inward-looking competition. He also emphasized equal treatment of enterprises across all ownership types, consistent implementation of policies from the private enterprise symposium, and sustained efforts to improve the business environment, alongside steadily expanding institutional openness to broaden international cooperation.
Xi stressed that economically strong provinces should shoulder greater responsibility in executing national strategies. Jiangsu, he said, must take proactive and collaborative roles in strategies like the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta and the Yangtze Economic Belt. It should align with initiatives such as the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region and the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, deeply engage in the high-quality co-construction of the Belt and Road Initiative, and excel in paired assistance programs like aid to Tibet and Xinjiang. Jiangsu must also fulfill its duties in safeguarding arable land, ensuring food security, protecting the environment, and securing the water supply for the South-to-North Water Diversion Project.
Xi further noted that provinces with rapid economic growth should lead in exploring pathways to common prosperity and serve as exemplars. Jiangsu should intensify efforts in comprehensive rural revitalization, urban-rural integration, and consolidating poverty alleviation achievements. It should prioritize foundational, inclusive, and safety-net (livelihood) initiatives, address pressing public concerns with practical actions, and enhance the equity and accessibility of basic public services—particularly by prioritizing employment as the bedrock of people’s well-being. Additionally, Jiangsu should deepen urban-rural cultural development, enrich cultural offerings, and leverage culture to empower socioeconomic progress.
Xi emphasized that for economically strong provinces to shoulder their critical roles, unwavering adherence to the Party’s comprehensive leadership is essential, with high-quality Party building steering high-quality development. Party organizations at all levels must enhance their political and organizational capacities, while cadres should embrace heavy responsibilities and pioneer progress with a pragmatic, diligent work ethic and an image of integrity and discipline, rallying the people to forge new horizons in socioeconomic development.
Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau and Director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, attended the deliberation, alongside Mu Hong and others.
Li Qiang Joins Yunnan Delegation Deliberation
On the afternoon of March 5, Li Qiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau and Premier of the State Council, joined the Yunnan delegation—where he is a representative—to review the Government Work Report alongside fellow deputies.
After hearing their remarks, Li Qiang reflected that the past year had been an extraordinary chapter in China’s development. Under the steadfast leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core, people of all ethnic groups persevered and overcame challenges, successfully meeting the year’s primary socioeconomic targets and taking solid strides in Chinese-style modernization. He praised Yunnan’s cadres and masses for earnestly implementing President Xi’s directives and the Party Central Committee’s decisions, achieving new progress in building a model zone for ethnic unity, leading ecological civilization efforts, and establishing a hub radiating toward South and Southeast Asia, with notable highlights in socioeconomic development.
Li emphasized that 2025, the final year of the “14th Five-Year Plan,” demands bolstered confidence and innovative thinking, with heightened responsibility and proactive measures to sustain economic recovery, enhance public welfare, and maintain social stability. Yunnan, he noted, holds a vital position in the national development framework. Guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, it must fully implement the Party Central Committee’s decisions and the specific arrangements of the Government Work Report, leveraging its unique strengths to accelerate transformation and carve a new path of high-quality development through deepened reform and openness. This includes upgrading tourism consumption as a new economic growth engine, expanding green development opportunities by integrating “green energy + advanced manufacturing” and promoting green agriculture, strengthening its role as a southwest gateway for openness with enhanced internal and external connectivity, advancing rural prosperity while solidifying poverty alleviation gains, and fostering a strong sense of community among the Chinese nation to safeguard ethnic unity and border stability.
Zhao Leji Participates in the Sichuan Delegation’s Review
On the afternoon of May 5, Zhao Leji—Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Politburo and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress—joined the review session of the Sichuan delegation to which he belongs. After listening to the representatives’ remarks, he commented that Premier Li Qiang’s government work report, which fully implements the spirit of the 20th Party Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, objectively reviews past achievements and lays out anticipated goals and key tasks in a scientific and rational manner, is a report marked by a clear theme, a sense of responsibility, proactive initiative, and unifying encouragement.
Zhao further pointed out that over the past year, amid increasingly complex challenges marked by rising external pressures and mounting internal difficulties, the Party Central Committee—with Xi Jinping at its core—has united and led the entire Party and people of all ethnic groups to forge ahead and overcome obstacles, successfully accomplishing the major economic and social development objectives. These hard-won and inspiring achievements have deepened our understanding of the decisive significance of the “Two Establishes” and have further bolstered our resolve and confidence to comprehensively build a modern socialist nation on this new journey in the new era. He urged that we align our thoughts and actions with the Central Committee’s analysis and decisions regarding the current situation, remain steadfast in our convictions, work diligently, pursue reform and innovation with a pragmatic and realistic approach, and meticulously execute all tasks to achieve the high-quality objectives of the 14th Five-Year Plan—thereby laying a solid foundation for a promising start to the 15th Five-Year Plan.
Zhao fully commended the economic and social development achievements in Sichuan and expressed his hope that the province would deeply study and implement General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important directives on work in Sichuan, as well as the Central Committee’s strategic decisions. By integrating these policies with local realities, Sichuan is expected to elevate its governance and development to a new level in the new era and contribute significantly to the overall advancement of Chinese-style modernization. He also called on all levels of the People’s Congress in Sichuan Province to thoroughly absorb and implement the key messages from General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important speech delivered at the 70th anniversary celebration of the National People’s Congress, to uphold the Party’s comprehensive leadership over the work of the People’s Congress, conscientiously fulfill the constitutional and legal responsibilities bestowed upon them, and continuously enhance the quality and standard of their work.
Wang Huning Participates in the Guizhou Delegation’s Review
On the afternoon of May 5, Wang Huning—Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Politburo and Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference—joined the Guizhou delegation to review the government work report alongside its representatives. After listening to their contributions, he remarked that Premier Li Qiang’s report embodies Xi Jinping’s Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and reflects the spirit of the 20th Party Congress as well as the resolutions of its subsequent plenary sessions. He expressed his full approval of the report.
Wang noted that in the past year, under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core, the country has successfully achieved its major economic and social development targets, and Chinese-style modernization has taken a robust new step forward. He emphasized the need to deeply grasp the decisive significance of the “Two Establishes” and to resolutely uphold the “Two Safeguards,” further reinforcing our determination and confidence to advance Chinese-style modernization.
He further expressed his hope that Guizhou would earnestly study and implement Xi Jinping’s Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and strictly execute General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important directives concerning work in Guizhou, as well as the Central Committee’s strategic decisions. Wang stressed the importance of adhering to a work approach that balances stability with progress, of governing with a focus on high-quality development, of fully and accurately implementing the new development philosophy, and of actively serving and integrating into the new development pattern. Moreover, he called for deepening comprehensive reforms, solidly achieving the targets of the 14th Five-Year Plan, and advancing a coordinated strategy to transform traditional industries, strengthen competitive sectors, and cultivate new productive forces. This, he said, should also include promoting the healthy and high-quality development of the private sector, revitalizing rural areas, advancing green and low-carbon development, steadily improving social security, and earnestly advancing the construction of a community with a shared future for the Chinese nation. Finally, he urged a comprehensive strengthening of the Party’s leadership and its organizational work to inspire cadres and the public to bolster confidence, take decisive action, and rigorously implement policies.
Ding Xuexiang Participates in the Liaoning Delegation’s Review
On the afternoon of May 5, Ding Xuexiang—Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Politburo and Vice Premier of the State Council—joined the Liaoning delegation in reviewing the government work report. After hearing the representatives’ comments, Ding expressed his full approval of Premier Li Qiang’s report. He noted that over the past year, under the steadfast leadership of the Party Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core, our nation has traversed an extraordinary path and achieved significant milestones, with Chinese-style modernization taking new, robust strides forward. The inspiring accomplishments attained amid complex and severe circumstances are fundamentally due to General Secretary Xi Jinping’s visionary leadership and the scientific guidance of his Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. He urged that from the remarkable course of our Party and national development, we must further comprehend the decisive significance of the “Two Establishes,” strengthen the “Four Consciousnesses,” solidify the “Four Confidences,” and implement the “Two Safeguards,” thereby ensuring that our thoughts, politics, and actions remain in unwavering alignment with the Party Central Committee led by Xi Jinping.
Ding emphasized that to successfully achieve this year’s development objectives, it is imperative to thoroughly learn and apply Xi Jinping’s economic thought. Priority must be given to high-quality development by uniting qualitative enhancements with a rational increase in quantitative measures; by expanding domestic demand—particularly consumer demand—to ensure that it becomes the primary driving force and stabilizing anchor for economic growth; by focusing on technological innovation to accelerate the development of new productive forces; by strengthening the construction of a unified national market to promote the efficient allocation of resources; and by steadfastly safeguarding the bottom line of safety to ensure that high-quality development goes hand in hand with high-level security.
He concluded by expressing his hope that Liaoning will deeply implement General Secretary Xi Jinping’s important directives, accelerate its comprehensive revitalization, and make even greater contributions to advancing Chinese-style modernization.
Li Xi Joins Fujian Delegation Deliberation
On the afternoon of March 5, Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, participated in the deliberation of the Fujian delegation, where he serves as a representative. After listening to the deputies’ remarks, Li Xi expressed full endorsement of the Government Work Report delivered by Premier Li Qiang. He noted that over the past year, the CPC Central Committee, with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, had adeptly navigated complex challenges, uniting and leading the Party and the people of all ethnic groups to successfully achieve the primary socioeconomic development goals. This effort propelled the Party and the nation toward new and significant accomplishments. Li Xi called for resolute support of the “Two Establishes” and steadfast adherence to the “Two Upholds,” aligning thoughts and actions with President Xi Jinping’s vision and the Central Committee’s decisions to forge ahead with unity and innovation in pursuit of the Party’s mission in the new era.
Li Xi underscored that China stands at a pivotal juncture in advancing its modernization drive toward national strength and rejuvenation. He expressed hope that Fujian would heed President Xi’s earnest expectations, steadfastly pursuing the goal of building a new Fujian characterized by dynamic mechanisms, thriving industries, prosperous citizens, and ecological beauty. By fostering new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions, accelerating the development of a modern economic system, promoting coordinated regional and urban-rural development, and exploring innovative pathways for cross-strait integration, Fujian should strive to lead in the construction of Chinese-style modernization.
Li Xi emphasized that high-quality development demands high-quality Party building. Disciplinary and supervisory organs must align with the central mission, serving the broader picture by upholding a spirit of reform and stringent standards in Party governance. This includes sustaining concrete, precise, and routine political oversight, consolidating the outcomes of Party discipline education, tackling corruption and misconduct in tandem, relentlessly implementing the Central Committee’s Eight-Point Regulations, addressing malpractices and corruption affecting the masses, and advancing an integrated framework to deter, prevent, and eliminate corruption. Such efforts, he said, would provide robust assurances for advancing Chinese-style modernization through comprehensive and strict Party governance.
Han Zheng Joins Shandong Delegation Deliberation
On the afternoon of March 5, Vice President Han Zheng joined the Shandong delegation, where he serves as a representative, to deliberate on the Government Work Report alongside fellow deputies.
After hearing their remarks, Han Zheng voiced full approval of Premier Li Qiang’s Government Work Report. He reflected that in 2024, amid a challenging landscape of escalating external pressures and mounting domestic difficulties, the CPC Central Committee, with Xi Jinping at its core, united the Party and the nation’s ethnic groups in a composed and multifaceted response. This ensured stable economic performance with steady progress, advancing high-quality development and achieving the year’s primary socioeconomic goals. China’s economic, scientific, and comprehensive national strength continued to grow, marking new strides in Chinese-style modernization. Han attributed these hard-won achievements to President Xi’s strategic leadership and the scientific guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.
Han stressed that 2025, the concluding year of the “14th Five-Year Plan” and a critical period for deepening comprehensive reforms, requires aligning thoughts and actions with the Central Committee’s scientific assessments and decisions. This entails rigorously implementing tasks to meet annual objectives, balancing aggregate supply and demand, expanding domestic demand comprehensively, promoting high-level scientific and technological self-reliance, and leveraging innovation to drive new quality productive forces. Further deepening reform and openness, he added, would contribute to building a shared future for humanity.
Han expressed hope that Shandong would earnestly study and apply President Xi’s important remarks from his Shandong inspection, resolutely embracing its mission to “lead the way and shoulder major responsibilities,” and vigorously composing its chapter in Chinese-style modernization.
[Resolute Confidence in Development, United Efforts for a New Journey—Deputies and Committee Members Deliberate National Affairs] Fulfilling Duties with Insightful Proposals, Uniting for a Bright Future
On the afternoon of March 5, deputies to the Third Session of the Fourteenth NPC began group deliberations on the Government Work Report.
Ma Xingrui, a member of the CPC Central Committee Political Bureau and Secretary of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Party Committee, said during the Xinjiang delegation’s deliberation that the past year showcased the Central Committee’s farsighted planning and decisive leadership under Xi Jinping. By steering the economy with stability and injecting robust momentum, it advanced Chinese-style modernization with solid steps. He urged thorough implementation of the “Two Sessions” spirit, comprehensive adherence to the Party’s strategy for governing Xinjiang in the new era, and stellar achievements to mark the 70th anniversary of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region’s founding.
Wang Yi, a Political Bureau member and Director of the Central Foreign Affairs Office, expressed full support for the Government Work Report during the Guangxi delegation’s deliberation. He affirmed that the diplomatic and foreign affairs front would staunchly uphold the “Two Establishes” and “Two Upholds,” proactively mitigating external risks under the Central Committee’s leadership to create a favorable environment for achieving the “14th Five-Year Plan” goals and laying a strong foundation for the “15th Five-Year Plan.”
Yin Li, a Political Bureau member and Beijing Party Secretary, endorsed the Government Work Report during the Beijing delegation’s deliberation. Beijing, he said, would resolutely uphold the “Two Establishes” and “Two Upholds,” implementing Central Committee decisions with a heightened sense of its capital role and exemplary standards. This includes optimizing functions, fostering innovation, enhancing governance, improving livelihoods, promoting cultural refinement, and ensuring security to craft Beijing’s chapter in Chinese-style modernization.
Shi Taifeng, a Political Bureau member and Minister of the Central United Front Work Department, noted during the Hunan delegation’s deliberation that in 2024, the Central Committee adeptly navigated complex challenges, advancing Chinese-style modernization with firm steps. He emphasized the decisive significance of the “Two Establishes,” calling for resolute “Two Upholds” and leveraging the united front to rally support for socioeconomic goals.
Liu Guozhong, a Political Bureau member and Vice Premier, fully endorsed Premier Li Qiang’s report during the Henan delegation’s deliberation. He stressed aligning with the Central Committee’s assessments and decisions, drawing on the “Ten Million Project” experience to advance rural revitalization, strengthen basic healthcare, and enhance public well-being.
Li Ganjie, a Political Bureau member and Minister of the Central Organization Department, said during the Shaanxi delegation’s deliberation that last year’s remarkable achievements stemmed from President Xi’s leadership and Xi Jinping Thought’s guidance. Fully supporting the Government Work Report, he called for upholding the “Two Establishes” and “Two Upholds,” employing reformist zeal and rigorous standards in organizational work to ensure a successful conclusion to the “14th Five-Year Plan.”
[Resolute Confidence in Development, United Efforts for a New Journey—Deputies and Committee Members Deliberate National Affairs] Drawing the Widest Concentric Circle, Focusing on Advancing Chinese-Style Modernization through Consultation and Proposals
On the afternoon of March 5, members of the Third Session of the Fourteenth National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) convened in groups to review the Work Report of the CPPCC Standing Committee and the Report on Proposal Handling. They agreed that the CPPCC must rally more closely around the CPC Central Committee, with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, bolster unwavering confidence, harness collective strength, and elevate its work to new heights in the new era and journey.
CPPCC Vice Chairman Hu Chunhua, participating in the CPC sector discussion, expressed full endorsement of both the Government Work Report and the CPPCC Standing Committee Work Report. He highlighted the new great achievements of the Party and the nation under President Xi’s leadership, urging a profound understanding of the decisive significance of the “Two Establishes” and steadfast adherence to the “Two Upholds” while actively engaging in consultative governance.
CPPCC Vice Chairman Shen Yueyue, also in the CPC sector discussion, noted that under the resolute leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core, Chinese-style modernization has achieved significant new milestones. She called for resolute support of the “Two Establishes,” firm commitment to the “Two Upholds,” and united efforts with determined pragmatism to accomplish the year’s goals.
CPPCC Vice Chairman Wang Yong, joining the economic sector discussion, remarked that the past year’s major achievements in Party and national endeavors were both inspiring and uplifting. He stressed resolute implementation of the CPC Central Committee’s decisions under Xi Jinping’s leadership, emphasizing diligent fulfillment of duties aligned with the Party’s central tasks to contribute to Chinese-style modernization.
CPPCC Vice Chairman Ho Hau Wah, participating in the specially invited Macao representatives’ discussion, urged Macao’s CPPCC members to deeply study Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, actively engage in Hengqin’s development, enhance internal and external connectivity, and promote Macao’s moderately diversified economy, thereby making greater contributions to Chinese-style modernization.
CPPCC Vice Chairman Bater, in the ethnic minorities sector discussion, emphasized the CPPCC’s role as a specialized consultative body. He advocated advancing the sense of community among the Chinese nation, broadly uniting hearts, consensus, wisdom, and strength to comprehensively promote national strength and rejuvenation through Chinese-style modernization.
Third Session of the Fourteenth NPC Launches First “Deputies’ Corridor”
The Third Session of the Fourteenth NPC opened its inaugural “Deputies’ Corridor” on March 5, welcoming six NPC deputies to engage with media representatives.
The first deputy to step forward, Lei Jun, who attended a private enterprise symposium on February 17, expressed deep appreciation for the CPC Central Committee’s care and support for private businesses. Over the past five years, his company invested over 100 billion yuan in core technology R&D, with plans to further increase innovation spending.
Scientific and technological innovation, as NPC deputy Zhou Yunjie explained, is the core competitive edge for Chinese brands on the global stage. He shared his enterprise’s decade-long journey to set international standards with original technology, earning global respect. The company now operates ten R&D centers worldwide, has launched over 200 original products, and commands a 53% share of overseas markets.
With China’s population aged 60 and above exceeding 300 million, how can elderly care be ensured? Gexi Wangmu, an NPC deputy from Sichuan’s Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture who rose from orphan to national representative, emphasized the profound improvements in grassroots elderly care systems under Party and government support.
Common prosperity, a defining feature of socialism, was highlighted by NPC deputy Zhang Tianren from Zhejiang—the nation’s first common prosperity demonstration zone. He shared his village’s successful collaboration with rural areas in central and western provinces to foster joint development and prosperity.
Deputies Zhang Junjie and Zhang Dongxu also addressed journalists’ questions on topics like mutual recognition of medical tests and enhancing coordinated combat effectiveness during the corridor session.
“Ministers’ Corridor” Opens at Two Sessions
Spotlighting Economic Development and Confidence
The first “Ministers’ Corridor” of the Two Sessions commenced on March 5, with four senior officials from the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Education, State Administration for Market Regulation, and National Financial Regulatory Administration addressing pressing media inquiries.
Transport Minister Liu Wei reported that China’s integrated, multi-dimensional transport network now spans over 6 million kilometers, boasting the world’s largest high-speed rail network, highway system, postal express network, and a world-class port cluster. In 2024, nationwide logistics costs dropped by approximately 400 billion yuan, with transportation costs reduced by 280 billion yuan.
Education Minister Huai Jinpeng announced strategic initiatives for this year to accelerate and strengthen talent cultivation in service of national strategies and technological advancement. This includes enhancing the “Strong Foundation Plan” to bolster basic discipline training and expanding efforts in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and renewable energy.
Luo Wen, head of the State Administration for Market Regulation, revealed that in the past year, 3,042 cases of illegal fees imposed on businesses were addressed, with 1.36 billion yuan refunded to enterprises. This year, a dual approach of addressing symptoms and root causes will tackle irregular business fees.
Li Yunze, head of the National Financial Regulatory Administration, noted that in 2024, Chinese banks’ capital adequacy ratio rose to 16%, insurance solvency reached 200%, and the non-performing loan ratio fell to 1.5%, with key financial indicators in a healthy range. Last year, banking and insurance sectors injected over 30 trillion yuan into the economy, with plans this year to enhance financial support for consumption and public welfare.
The ministers also fielded questions on building a transport powerhouse, foundational education, the platform economy, and financial backing for technological innovation.
State Council Information Office Holds a Press Briefing to Interpret the Government Work Report
Today, March 5, the State Council Information Office hosted a press briefing and invited a senior official from the State Council Research Office to elucidate the Government Work Report. When asked, “Why has China set this year’s economic growth target at approximately 5%?” the official explained that the target was established after a comprehensive assessment of both domestic and international circumstances, weighing needs against possibilities. This approach clearly embodies a resolute, proactive, and forward-thinking orientation.
He further noted that China’s economic recovery is steadily consolidating and expanding, supported by a coordinated mix of new and existing policies. In particular, this year’s more assertive and proactive macroeconomic policy package is poised to furnish robust support for sustained economic growth. The official emphasized that the report places a premium on high-quality development, the deepening of comprehensive reforms, and the prioritization of people’s welfare, as demonstrated by a series of tangible, citizen-focused measures. During the briefing, he also addressed reporters’ inquiries on stimulating consumption, constructing a unified national market, and bolstering business confidence—especially among private enterprises.
China’s Bulk Commodities Market Steadily Recovers in February
The China Federation of Logistics and Purchasing announced today, March 5, that the China Bulk Commodities Price Index for February reached 112.6 points, marking a 1.3% month-on-month increase. Following the rapid post-Spring Festival resumption of production and the rebound in downstream consumption, the index not only climbed month-on-month but also outperformed levels seen in previous years. Of the 50 key commodities monitored, 25 recorded price increases in February.
Diverse Activities Nationwide Celebrate and Perpetuate the New Era of the Lei Feng Spirit
In anticipation of the 62nd Lei Feng Memorial Day, various regions and departments have launched a rich array of initiatives to perpetuate and embody the Lei Feng spirit for the new era. Over the past few days, the Central Committee of the Communist Youth League has mobilized youth organizations at all levels to carry out diverse volunteer service activities in the spirit of Lei Feng. Across the country, “Lei Feng Exemplary Ideological and Political Education” sessions are guiding young people to delve deeply into Lei Feng’s legacy, ensuring that his spirit continues to shine brilliantly in contemporary society.
Young volunteers are actively engaged in communities across urban and rural areas, organizing volunteer service fairs, patiently instructing seniors in the use of smartphones, and disseminating anti-fraud information. In agricultural areas, volunteers provide specialized agronomic training to farmers, delivering practical agricultural knowledge that contributes to rural revitalization. In rural elementary schools paired through support programs, charitable teaching initiatives are underway, with young volunteers inaugurating “AI Dream Classrooms” to spark children’s technological aspirations.
In Fushun, Liaoning—the birthplace of the Lei Feng spirit—visitors flock to the Lei Feng Memorial Hall to admire invaluable exhibits and reflect upon Lei Feng’s modest yet extraordinary life. In several cities in Henan, primary and secondary schools have organized themed class meetings to pass on his legacy. In Harbin, Heilongjiang, service teams share uplifting experiences of helping others with students, while in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, children listen to national labor models recount tales of volunteer service. At the Lei Feng Cultural Museum in Pingxiang, Jiangxi, guided tours and displays inspire visitors to appreciate the enduring essence of the Lei Feng spirit.
Moreover, local communities are institutionalizing volunteerism by drawing on the practical example set by Lei Feng. In Beijing, Tianjin, and Chongqing, volunteers are actively venturing into construction sites, communities, and other grassroots settings to execute public welfare initiatives such as elder care. In Changsha, Hunan—Lei Feng’s hometown—the “Civilized Practice: I Act” campaign brings safety lectures and appliance repair services directly to residents’ doorsteps. In Taiyuan (Shanxi), Nanning (Guangxi), and Fusong (Jilin), young volunteers provide essential services, ensuring convenient support for local communities. In the military unit where Lei Feng once served, a “Learn from Lei Feng on the Job: Be a Pioneer in Overcoming Challenges” campaign has been launched, with military healthcare workers offering free consultations and distributing medical aid in communities and revolutionary regions, thereby conveying warmth and solidarity.
Schools in the Earthquake-Stricken Areas of Dingri, Tibet, Reopen Today
Today, March 5, over 1,000 primary and secondary schools in Shigatse, Tibet, have commenced the new academic term. At 9:30 a.m., more than 200 teacher and student representatives from Dingri County Middle School and the complete primary schools in Quluo and Cuoguo Townships participated in the opening ceremony. They also connected via video with students from Beijing and Chengdu, engaging in joint choral activities. Despite the 6.8-magnitude earthquake that impacted 79 schools in Dingri County, emergency repairs and structural reinforcements have enabled 76 schools to reopen on their original sites. Over 1,400 students from three primary schools in Changshou, Quluo, and Cuoguo Townships have been appropriately accommodated at four resettlement sites in the county, allowing them to attend school locally. Today, schools across Tibet—including those in the earthquake-affected areas—have incorporated vivid examples from the disaster relief efforts into their “First Lesson of the New School Year” programs.
Solar Term: Jingzhe (Awakening of Insects)
Today, March 5, marks Jingzhe, one of the 24 solar terms and the third of spring, signaling the beginning of mid-spring. As the ancient saying goes, “With a light rain, all blossoms are renewed; a single clap of thunder heralds the awakening.” At Jingzhe, the first rumblings of spring thunder proclaim the end of winter’s chill. Temperatures are rising and rainfall is increasing, enabling nature to unleash the latent energy amassed over winter, resulting in vibrant, vigorous growth. In many regions, Jingzhe is regarded as the onset of the spring planting season, with the fields abuzz with the industrious activity of early sowing.
Emergency Arab Summit Approves a Reconstruction Plan for Gaza
An emergency summit of Arab nations concluded in Cairo, Egypt, on March 4. The summit’s declaration unequivocally opposed any form of expulsion of the Palestinian people and endorsed Egypt’s proposed Gaza Reconstruction Plan. According to the plan, an independent committee—free from partisan affiliations—will be established under the supervision of the Palestinian National Authority to manage Gaza for a minimum of six months. Hamas welcomed the proposal on the same day, asserting its rejection of external forces dictating Gaza’s future. In contrast, the Israeli Foreign Ministry issued a statement opposing the plan, contending that the involvement of the Palestinian National Authority in steering Gaza’s reconstruction lacks a practical foundation.
Canada and Mexico Criticize U.S. Tariff Increases, Reaffirming Their Retaliatory Measures
On March 4, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reiterated the nation’s imposition of retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, announcing that Canada would file a complaint with the World Trade Organization. Meanwhile, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador declared on the same day that Mexico rejects any form of hegemonism and that countermeasures in response to the U.S. tariff increases are slated to be announced on March 9.
Try today’s I Ching hexagram：Daily I Ching Online Hexagram Tool