As the Chinese saying goes, “The whole year’s work depends on a good start in spring.” Every March, as spring arrives, China holds the Two Sessions, the annual meetings of the National People’s Congress (NPC), the country’s top legislature, and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the top political advisory body, which set the tone for the country’s policy directions for the year.
Far more than procedural gatherings, these meetings serve as both a window through which to gain understanding of, and a door for engaging with, China’s governance and evolving role on the global stage.
As a window, the Two Sessions offer a clear view into China’s economic policies, innovative development strategies and diplomatic approaches. The discussions and decisions made during these meetings outline the country’s trajectory in key areas, such as technological advancement, sustainability efforts and international relations.
Policies and strategies like the development of new quality productive forces, rural revitalization and improvements in the business environment for private enterprises are all shaped by the insights and contributions of NPC deputies and CPPCC National Committee members. These representatives, coming from diverse sectors and all of China’s 56 ethnic groups, ensure that the country’s governance reflects a broad spectrum of perspectives from different regions and industries.
China’s governance system, deeply rooted in the reality of its society, is not a static model but one that actively evolves through whole-process people’s democracy. The vitality of socialism with Chinese characteristics lies in its ability to adapt and respond to the needs of the people.
This adaptability is evident in how the government work report, a central agenda item of the Two Sessions, is crafted through extensive consultation and review. Opinions from across society are incorporated into the report before being carefully considered, discussed and revised.
At the same time, the Two Sessions act as a door, opening pathways for dialogue and international cooperation. A notable example of international cooperation discussed during the Two Sessions is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a China-proposed initiative to boost connectivity along and beyond the ancient Silk Road routes.
This global development initiative was examined and refined during these meetings. China has pledged to work to ensure new progress in high-quality BRI cooperation with partner countries, connecting peoples and enhancing opportunities for economic and cultural cooperation.
The inclusive nature of the deliberations at the Two Sessions reinforces China’s approach to governance, one that prioritizes stability while embracing reform. It is within this framework that policies promoting innovation, economic resilience and social development emerge. For instance, the emphasis on enhancing the business environment for private enterprises showcases China’s commitment to fostering an open and fair market, while initiatives like rural revitalization highlight efforts to bridge regional disparities and improve livelihoods nationwide.
Internationally, the outcomes of the Two Sessions send strong signals about China’s policy directions, fostering understanding and cooperation with other nations because the discussions held during these meetings influence global perceptions and interactions with China.
In essence, the Two Sessions embody a dual function: They provide transparency into China’s governance for the world to observe and also serve as an entry point for collaboration.
Understanding this dual role helps demystify China’s policy-making process and underscores the country’s dedication to progress, both domestically and in the international arena. As China continues to evolve, the Two Sessions will remain a crucial mechanism for shaping its future and engaging with the world. –The Daily Mail-Beijing Review news exchange item
