Tiananmen Square, typically bustling with millions of tourists annually, now sits deserted as the Great Hall of the People in Beijing hosts thousands of delegates for China’s major political meetings. Known as the “Two Sessions,” these gatherings occur amidst challenges such as a shrinking domestic economy, uncertainties from the U.S.-China tariff dispute, and the loss of a significant Middle Eastern ally by China.
Security measures in downtown Beijing have been tightened, with an increased police presence, facial scans at checkpoints, and restrictions on drones. Notable figures like basketball star Yao Ming and Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun are among the 5,000 delegates attending the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the National People’s Congress (NPC).
These meetings serve as platforms for policy announcements and economic targets, drawing extensive media coverage. Premier Li Qiang is expected to present the government work report at the NPC, outlining the country’s policy priorities and economic objectives.
The events highlight China’s focus on technology and self-reliance, particularly in AI and green energy, as outlined in the latest five-year plan to be adopted during the meetings. Despite the controlled nature of the gatherings, their outcomes will offer insights into China’s direction, crucial in the context of its dominance in rare earth minerals and its strategic positioning in the global economy.
The economic agenda at the meetings will address challenges posed by a sluggish property market and low demand, with the IMF projecting a 4.5% growth rate for China in 2026. The emphasis on technology, particularly AI, is seen as more of a security-oriented strategy rather than a growth driver, leading to concerns about overcapacity and export reliance due to weak domestic demand.
Discussions at the Two Sessions are expected to cover various topics, including China’s relationship with Iran, internal military purges, and the implications of tariff wars. The meetings offer a platform for China to exhibit its resilience amidst global challenges and assert its position following the trade tensions with the United States.
The international community will closely watch the outcomes of the meetings for indications of China’s economic priorities, technological advancements, and global influence. The significance of these events extends beyond the domestic sphere, shaping China’s trajectory in an evolving global landscape.