Understanding China’s Annual Legislative Meetings: The "Two Sessions"
Introduction to the "Two Sessions"
Every year, China’s political landscape comes alive with the convening of two significant events: the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). These gatherings, collectively known as the "two sessions," are pivotal moments in China’s political calendar. The CPPCC, which started on Tuesday, is an advisory body that provides guidance to the Communist Party leadership, while the NPC, set to begin on Wednesday, is the legislative body responsible for enacting laws. This year, both sessions are focusing on strategies to bolster China’s economy, which has faced numerous challenges in recent years.
The Role of the NPC and CPPCC
The NPC stands as a cornerstone of China’s legislative framework, comprising nearly 3,000 members who convene annually, typically in March. Its primary role is to implement the directives of President Xi Jinping and the Communist Party. In contrast, the CPPCC, with its 2,000 members, serves a more consultative function, offering advice and suggestions to the party leadership. Interestingly, the CPPCC often includes influential figures such as movie star Jackie Chan and other prominent individuals who are supportive of the regime. Despite its advisory nature, the CPPCC plays a crucial role in shaping public discourse and policy directions.
Economic Challenges and the Focus of the Two Sessions
The backdrop of this year’s "two sessions" is marked by significant economic challenges. China’s economy has been grappling with stagnant growth, plummeting foreign investment, and a declining birth rate, all of which pose long-term concerns. The real estate sector, in particular, has been a source of turmoil, exemplified by the collapse of the giant Evergrande, which was ordered to liquidate due to a staggering $300 billion debt. This crisis has left many citizens burdened with mortgages for homes that were never constructed, leading to widespread protests and bank runs.
Government Response and Propaganda
In the face of these challenges, the Chinese government has been proactive in its propaganda efforts, aiming to instill confidence in the economy. Spokesmen like Liu Jieyi have consistently emphasized China’s "strong resilience" and "great potential," reinforcing the narrative of economic stability. The state-run media, including outlets like Xinhua News Agency and Global Times, have echoed these sentiments, highlighting the government’s plans to set economic growth targets, manage the deficit-to-GDP ratio, and control inflation. Despite the daunting issues, the government’s message remains one of optimism and determination.
Foreign Investment and Geopolitical Context
One of the critical issues addressed during the "two sessions" is the steep decline in foreign investment. Many Western companies have been vacating their offices in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai, leading to a significant increase in vacant office spaces. In response, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce has launched an "action plan" to stabilize foreign investment, which is expected to be reinforced by policies enacted during the NPC. Additionally, the geopolitical context, with tensions between China and the United States, has added another layer of complexity to these discussions.
Conclusion: A Message of Confidence
As the "two sessions" progress, the Chinese government is keen to project a message of confidence and unity. Despite internal economic volatility and external geopolitical challenges, the meetings are framed as a testament to China’s resilience and innovation. While foreign observers may draw comparisons with political events in other countries, China’s focus remains on its domestic agenda, aiming to stabilize its economy and reaffirm its leadership on the global stage. The sessions are expected to conclude by March 11, marking the end of a critical period in China’s political and economic planning.