Other highlights of news conference
Sci-tech progress
Openness and cooperation are the correct choices for China to explore the frontiers of science and advance sci-tech progress, Lou Qinjian, the spokesman for the second session of the 14th National People’s Congress, said on Monday. The nation’s drive for sci-tech self-reliance does not mean it will close its doors for research and development, he said. China will remain committed to participating in the global innovation network and jointly advancing basic research. Lou warned that engaging in practices such as “decoupling” or “building a small yard with high fences” will only hinder global technological progress, damage global industrial development, and widen the global development gap. He said China has the ability to achieve sci-tech self-reliance, citing the success of the development of the Beidou Satellite Navigation System.
High-quality growth
China’s economy is poised to see more favorable conditions than challenges, Lou said, adding the “underlying trend of an economic rebound and economic fundamentals that will sustain longterm growth remain unchanged”. Looking forward, he said the NPC and its Standing Committee will seek steady progress in improving legislation, providing safeguards for high-quality development through high-quality legislation. More efforts will be made to introduce legislation to deepen reforms of the financial system and support the development of the private sector to boost the intrinsic driving forces of the economy, he said.
Premier’s news conference
The premier will not meet the media at the conclusion of the weeklong annual session of the national legislature, Lou said. He explained that Premier Li Qiang, in his first news conference after taking office in March 2023, had already elaborated on key issues on economic and social development as well as the development of the government. Last year, the premier also made clear the work approach for his entire tenure, Lou added. Premier Li will deliver the Government Work Report on Tuesday, while the National Development and Reform Commission and the Ministry of Finance, entrusted by the State Council, will submit a report on socioeconomic planning and a report on the budget to the annual session. The three reports will offer responses to major concerns of society, Lou said.
The NPC Press Center will increase the number of news conferences with ministers, in addition to interviews, to offer in-depth interpretations and explanations on issues of public concern, he added. More interview opportunities will be made available to reporters from China and overseas as NPC delegations hold open house events and delegates accept interviews, Lou said.
Given these considerations, a news conference with the premier will not be scheduled this year, and the upcoming sessions of the 14th NPC will not arrange news conferences with the premier except for special circumstances, he said.