China Tightens Grip on Power and Pushes High-Tech Development at Annual Legislative Session
The Chinese government's recent legislative session underscored a consolidation of power under Xi Jinping and a strategic shift towards technological innovation, amid scrapping traditional press engagements.
- China's National People's Congress concluded with a strong emphasis on technological innovation and self-reliance in science and technology.
- The session highlighted a further consolidation of power under President Xi Jinping, with significant changes to the State Council law.
- For the first time since 1988, the traditional closing press conference by the premier was scrapped, signaling a reduction in government transparency.
- The legislative session approved laws that underscore the Communist Party's leadership over the State Council, blurring the lines between party and state.
- Foreign Minister Wang Yi's press conference on the sidelines provided limited insight into China's international stance, amidst a backdrop of increasing military spending and economic challenges.
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