The Intelligence from The Economist Rubber-stamping ground: China’s parliament meets
Mar 5, 2021
David Rennie, the Beijing bureau chief for The Economist, dives into the latest from China, highlighting the National People’s Congress and its ambitious economic growth target of 6%. He discusses the tightening grip Beijing has on Hong Kong, revealing new governance rules that suppress dissent. The conversation also touches on the contrasting challenges faced by the nightlife sector due to COVID-19, alongside Pope Francis's historic visit to Iraq, which aims to uplift the Christian community there. Insightful and timely!
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China's NPC Signals Economic and Political Direction
- China's National People's Congress (NPC) commenced, signaling a return to economic growth targets.
- A plan to eradicate Hong Kong's democratic vestiges was also announced.
China's Confident Growth Target
- China sets a feasible 6% growth target, demonstrating confidence in its COVID-19 recovery.
- This signals strong growth for China's economy, unlike other major economies.
Tightening Control Over Hong Kong
- The NPC will impose tighter rules on Hong Kong, reducing opposition power.
- This contradicts the "one country, two systems" policy, raising concerns about democracy.