Two Sessions

What you need to know about China’s biggest annual political gathering

“Two Centenary Goals”

To mark the 100th anniversaries of the formation of the Communist Party of China in 1921 and the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, the CPC set two centenary goals that are to be met by 2021 and 2049.

The first goal is to “build a moderately prosperous society in all respects” by 2021. This essentially means making sure that China’s development improves the lives of all its people, particularly those who are below or near the country’s poverty line.

The second goal is to “build a modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced and harmonious” by 2049. This is why much of the reform being pushed in recent years aims to prevent and control major risks, alleviate poverty, curb pollution, and deepen supply-side structural reform to push forward sustained and healthy economic and social development.

Since the implementation of reform and opening-up policies, China has lifted 770 million people out of poverty, meeting the goal of ending poverty, as established in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development — 10 years ahead of schedule.

Last year, all of China’s nearly 100 million impoverished rural residents living below the current poverty line cast off poverty after eight years of effort. Per capita disposable income of rural residents in poverty-stricken areas stood at 12,588 yuan ($1,928) last year, a 5.6 percent year-on-year rise in real terms after deducting price factors.

Xiaokang society

China has accomplished its poverty alleviation target for the new era on schedule, completing the foundational task and meeting the landmark target of building a xiaokang society, or a “moderately prosperous society in all respects” in English.

The concept of xiaokang took root 2,500 years ago, which represents ancient Chinese people’s longing for a peaceful and happy life. This ancient concept has evolved into a critical stage in China’s modernization. The CPC revived the pursuit of a xiaokang society about 40 years ago. “In all respects” means the fruits of development must be shared by all.