China's annual political season had its official unveiling in Beijing on Wednesday. As always, the "Two Sessions" will start with the top political advisory body, the CPPCC. At a press conference, spokesman for the session Wang Guoqing briefed the media on the issues that will be covered in the days ahead, from the economy to social welfare.[Special Coverage]
China's political season is set to begin. The top political advisory body says this year's annual session will start Thursday and last until March 14, one day longer than last year. Political advisers will contribute ideas to the country's five-year development plan from 2016 to 2020.
"This year, the CPPCC will further focus on the economic issues and hold workshop on macro economic situation. The workshop will be held every quarter, two times more than last year," Wang said.
"CPPCC members will also look at how to reduce the cost for business in the real economy, for the supply side reform, and how to spur innovation and entrepreneurship, improve financial services and support startups. They will conduct in-depth discussions and research, and offer their regards."
Wang said China will "definitely" achieve medium- to high-speed economic growth in 2016. He said China's 6.9-percent growth last year was outstanding, compared to the performance of other international economies, adding that the Chinese economy has been expanding with high quality.
During this session, political advisors will also join NPC deputies to discuss a government work report, as well as a draft law on charity. They will specifically talk about the equitable distribution of development benefits, such as medical services.
"In recent years, the CPPCC attaches great importance to medical care and health reform, and we have conducted studies and researches, as well as biweekly workshops. This year we have made the issue part of our agenda," Wang said.
"At the end of the meeting last year, the chairman of this conference gave instructions on carrying out research, studies and consultations on this topic. This year, research teams led by three chairpersons will reach out to see the real situation on the ground."
He added that the CPPCC will also focus on targeted domestic poverty relief and, as the world's economy struggles to find traction, extend the country's excellent production capacity outwards via the One Belt-One Road Strategy.
During the upcoming annual session, political advisors are urged to contribute constructive and practical ideas to lift the country's confidence during China's economic slowdown.
