Tiananmen Square, typically a bustling tourist destination, is currently deserted as the Great Hall of the People in Beijing hosts thousands of delegates from all over China for the major political parliamentary meetings known as the “Two Sessions.” These meetings occur amid challenges such as a shrinking domestic economy and uncertainties stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff actions and China’s recent loss of a significant Middle Eastern ally.
Security measures in downtown Beijing have been intensified, with increased police presence, facial recognition checkpoints for visitors, patrols by officers with sniffer dogs, and a temporary ban on drones. The Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the National People’s Congress (NPC), with around 2,000 and 3,000 delegates respectively, play a crucial role in these sessions. Notable figures attending include basketball star Yao Ming, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun, and actor Jackie Chan, who has previously been a CPPCC member.
The meetings serve as a platform for policy announcements, economic targets, and media coverage by numerous journalists. Premier Li Qiang is expected to present the government’s work report at the NPC, outlining policy priorities and economic goals. The outcomes of these sessions, particularly the NPC, will provide insights into China’s future direction, impacting global dynamics given its dominance in rare earth mineral production and technological advancements.
The adoption of the latest five-year plan at the Great Hall will emphasize China’s focus on self-reliance, particularly in areas like AI and green energy transition. Despite efforts to boost the economy, challenges persist, with the IMF projecting a 4.5% growth rate for 2026. China’s emphasis on technology and exports, driven partly by stagnant domestic demand, raises concerns about overcapacity issues.
The discussions at the Two Sessions are anticipated to cover various topics, including Iran’s oil exports to China, internal military purges, and the ongoing tariff tensions with the U.S. Changes in personnel within China’s military leadership signal potential shifts in the army’s operations and regional stability. The meetings also offer China an opportunity to showcase its resilience amid trade conflicts, with a belief that it has fared well in the face of external pressures.
In conclusion, the Two Sessions present a significant event for China to demonstrate its strengths and strategic direction, reflecting its response to global challenges and showcasing its position on the world stage.