Chinese Premier China’s Premier Li Qiang has criticised western leaders for their efforts to limit trade and business ties with his country and called the notion of de-risking a “false proposition” that could hamper international economic co-operation. warns western countries over de-risking strategy, calls it a “false proposition”

Li Qiang warns western countries over de-risking strategy, calls it a 'false proposition'

Chinese Premier Li Qiang warns world against politicizing economic issue

Chinese Premier Li Qiang will give the keynote speech of the WEF’s 14th Annual Meeting of the New Champions – commonly referred to as “Summer Davos”. Over 1,500 participants are expected to join, including many high-level delegations. Among them will be the prime ministers of New Zealand, Vietnam, Barbados and Mongolia, as well as several ministers from Saudi Arabia.

China to host the 14th Summer Davos Forum

Germany's ability to maintain economic ties with China and at the same time comply with G7 pledge to reduce reliance on Beijing is going to put through a tough test. The Chinese Premier League Li Qiang is set to make a visit to Berlin.

Chinese Premiere Li Qiang to visit Germany, to hold talks with German Chancellor

French President Emmanuel Macron is on a three-day state visit to China and he's scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping later today. Macron met with Chinese Premier Li Qang and National Assembly chairperson at the Great Hall of the People.

China: French President Emmanuel Macron meets Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing

French President Emmanuel Macron held a meeting with China's newly-appointed Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People, in Beijing. Macron is in China for a three-day trip with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a show of European unity in dealings with Beijing.

French President Macron meets Chinese Premier Li in Beijing

China's new premier Li Qiang on Monday sought to reassure the nation's private sector, saying that the environment for entrepreneurial businesses will improve and equal treatment will be given to companies, regardless of ownership type. Tasked with reviving the world's second-largest economy, the newly installed premier faces multiple challenges including weak consumer and private industry confidence, sluggish exports demand and a souring relationship with the United States.&nbsp;

Speaking to the media at his debut press conference as the China premier, Qiang said that the country will also undertake measures to boost jobs, and for that, he said "developing the economy is the fundamental solution".

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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China's economy is in the doldrums. Last year the nation's economy grew by just three per cent, the&nbsp;target as per AFP was around 5.5 per cent. Due to the impact of strict Covid policies and a property crisis, China missed the goal by a huge margin.

Keeping with that, this year's GDP growth target is a conservative five per cent. However, China Premier Li Qiang says that with the nation facing many difficulties, achieving this target would not be easy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/career-bureaucrat-xi-jinpings-ally-and-now-chinas-second-most-powerful-man-who-is-li-qiang-570929">Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang?</a>

Notably, the set target is one of the lowest in decades.&nbsp;

"I'm afraid that reaching our growth target of around five per cent will be no easy task, and will require that we redouble our efforts," said the China premier at a press conference held to mark the closing of the National People's Congress (NPC).

Li is a close ally and longtime confidant of China's President Xi Jinping and was appointed to the nation's second most powerful post last week during the annual session of Beijing's "rubber-stamp" parliament.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-calls-for-fortification-of-armed-forces-into-a-great-wall-of-steel-571333">Xi Jinping calls for fortification of armed forces into a 'Great Wall of steel'</a>

Speaking at the closing session of the CCP session, Xi Jinping called for greater self-reliance and said China needs security to develop. He also stressed on the importance of modernising the armed forces to make it into a "Great Wall of Steel".

"Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," said Xi.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China's new premier Li Qiang on Monday sought to reassure the nation's private sector, saying that the environment for entrepreneurial businesses will improve and equal treatment will be given to companies, regardless of ownership type.

China's new premier Li Qiang on Monday sought to reassure the nation's private sector, saying that the environment for entrepreneurial businesses will improve and equal treatment will be given to companies, regardless of ownership type. Tasked with reviving the world's second-largest economy, the newly installed premier faces multiple challenges including weak consumer and private industry confidence, sluggish exports demand and a souring relationship with the United States. Speaking to the media at his debut press conference as the China premier, Qiang said that the country will also undertake measures to boost jobs, and for that, he said "developing the economy is the fundamental solution". Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president China's economy is in the doldrums. Last year the nation's economy grew by just three per cent, the target as per AFP was around 5.5 per cent. Due to the impact of strict Covid policies and a property crisis, China missed the goal by a huge margin. Keeping with that, this year's GDP growth target is a conservative five per cent. However, China Premier Li Qiang says that with the nation facing many difficulties, achieving this target would not be easy. Also read | Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang? Notably, the set target is one of the lowest in decades. "I'm afraid that reaching our growth target of around five per cent will be no easy task, and will require that we redouble our efforts," said the China premier at a press conference held to mark the closing of the National People's Congress (NPC). Li is a close ally and longtime confidant of China's President Xi Jinping and was appointed to the nation's second most powerful post last week during the annual session of Beijing's "rubber-stamp" parliament. Also read | Xi Jinping calls for fortification of armed forces into a 'Great Wall of steel' Speaking at the closing session of the CCP session, Xi Jinping called for greater self-reliance and said China needs security to develop. He also stressed on the importance of modernising the armed forces to make it into a "Great Wall of Steel". "Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," said Xi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China premier Li Qiang says achieving 5% growth target 'no easy task'

Li Qiang, the former Shanghai Communist Party chief on Saturday, took over&nbsp;the nation’s number two post and assumed office as the country's premier. The 63-old-year-old Li faces the daunting task of reviving China’s economy, which has over the past three years been battered by COVID-19 curbs. He was appointed to the seven-member CCP Politburo Standing Committee — China’s highest echelon of power — at the Communist Party's 20th Congress last October. With his latest appointment, China Premier Li Qiang now ranks second in leadership after President Xi Jinping.

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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Here’s all you need to know about China’s second most powerful man:

<h2>Who is Li Qiang?</h2>

Qiang, as per Reuters, is a career bureaucrat who from 2017 to 2022 served as the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) secretary of the nation’s most populous city, Shanghai.

He joined the CCP in 1983 and since then has served in many capacities.

Qiang started his career as the secretary of the Communist Youth League of Rui'an, Zhejiang. He then went on to serve in the provincial department of civil affairs, following which he became the party secretary of Yong Kang, Wenzhou, the Political Legal Affairs Secretary of Zhejiang and later the deputy party secretary of the province.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-nominates-longtime-ally-li-qiang-as-chinas-new-premier-570794">Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier</a>

In 2012, he became the governor of Zhejiang. He then became the party secretary of Jiangsu province and was then finally transferred to the position of party secretary of Shanghai in 2017. The same year, he was elevated and was made a member of the CCP Politburo. &nbsp;

<h2>Why was he appointed as China’s premier?</h2>

Chinese President Xi Jinping, following his groundbreaking appointment as the third time head of China, is appointing a slate of his loyalists in key governmental posts. This has been termed China’s biggest government reshuffle in a decade. As a generation of more reform-minded officials retire, Xi as per Reuters, is further consolidating power after being unanimously elected president.

Li Qiang is a close ally of Xi, and he even served as Xi’s chief of staff between 2004 and 2007; back when the current President was the provincial party secretary of Zhejiang province.

<h2>What do experts say about Li Qiang’s rise to power?</h2>

Due to Qiang’s handling of Shanghai’s two-month lockdown last spring, in which residents struggled to access food and medical care, his ascension had as per AFP earlier seemed in doubt.

Richard McGregor, a senior fellow at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, says, "if proof were needed that loyalty trumps meritocracy in Xi's China, Li Qiang's elevation provides it."

"Li might be quite capable, and may make a good premier, but it is hard to see how he got there other than through Xi's personal favour," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-xi-jinping-securing-third-term-as-chinas-president-a-look-at-his-political-career-570544">Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far</a>

Neil Thomas, senior China analyst at Eurasia Group says that while "(Li) was seen as a business-friendly local leader but it's questionable whether these skills will translate well to overseeing macroeconomic coordination and regulatory agendas as premier.”

Some even see Li’s loyalty to Xi as an impediment to making his mark in solving the problems China faces. They say that his appointment may serve as a way for President Xi to assert his own economic agenda.

According to Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute, despite being the president's "trusted lieutenant", the new premier's ability to push through policies is still limited.

"Xi will give Li Qiang more scope to run the State Council, but on the basis that Li Qiang will do what Xi wants and not go beyond the perimeter set by Xi," he remarked.

<h2>What is expected of Li Qiang's premiership?</h2>

In his current capacity as premier and the head of China’s cabinet, the State Council, in his capacity as premier and head of China's cabinet Li Qiang will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the country, as well as its macroeconomic policy.

His ascension comes at a time when China’s economy is in serious trouble. Last year it grew by just three per cent. Owing to this, the ongoing annual session of the Chinese parliament has set a modest growth target of five per cent for 2023. This is the lowest goal set by China in nearly three decades.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-secures-third-term-as-chinas-president-570435">Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president</a>

As per Christopher Beddor, the deputy China research director at Gavekal Dragonomics, for Li, the top task this year will be beating the five per cent target without triggering serious inflation or piling on debt.

"The leadership has already accepted two years of exceptionally weak economic growth in the name of COVID containment. Now that containment is gone, they won’t accept another," added Beddor.

<h2>What is the current state of China’s economy?</h2>

For the first time in 25 years of its survey, the American Chamber of Commerce in China found that China is no longer seen as a "top three investment priority". The results were based on a survey of companies,&nbsp;the majority of which said this.

In recent years, some of Beijing’s most successful private firms like Alibaba have been battered by abrupt crackdowns and regulatory hurdles.

Even as China tries to present a business-friendly face, in the face of global headwinds and weak confidence among consumers and the private sector, Li will have to work hard to restore confidence.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Li Qiang, the former Shanghai Communist Party chief on Saturday, took over the nation’s number two post and assumed office as the country's premier. The 63-old-year-old Li faces the daunting task of reviving China’s economy, which has over the past three years been battered by COVID-19 curbs.

Li Qiang, the former Shanghai Communist Party chief on Saturday, took over the nation’s number two post and assumed office as the country's premier. The 63-old-year-old Li faces the daunting task of reviving China’s economy, which has over the past three years been battered by COVID-19 curbs. He was appointed to the seven-member CCP Politburo Standing Committee — China’s highest echelon of power — at the Communist Party's 20th Congress last October. With his latest appointment, China Premier Li Qiang now ranks second in leadership after President Xi Jinping. Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president Here’s all you need to know about China’s second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang? Qiang, as per Reuters, is a career bureaucrat who from 2017 to 2022 served as the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) secretary of the nation’s most populous city, Shanghai. He joined the CCP in 1983 and since then has served in many capacities. Qiang started his career as the secretary of the Communist Youth League of Rui'an, Zhejiang. He then went on to serve in the provincial department of civil affairs, following which he became the party secretary of Yong Kang, Wenzhou, the Political Legal Affairs Secretary of Zhejiang and later the deputy party secretary of the province. Also read | Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier In 2012, he became the governor of Zhejiang. He then became the party secretary of Jiangsu province and was then finally transferred to the position of party secretary of Shanghai in 2017. The same year, he was elevated and was made a member of the CCP Politburo. Why was he appointed as China’s premier? Chinese President Xi Jinping, following his groundbreaking appointment as the third time head of China, is appointing a slate of his loyalists in key governmental posts. This has been termed China’s biggest government reshuffle in a decade. As a generation of more reform-minded officials retire, Xi as per Reuters, is further consolidating power after being unanimously elected president. Li Qiang is a close ally of Xi, and he even served as Xi’s chief of staff between 2004 and 2007; back when the current President was the provincial party secretary of Zhejiang province. What do experts say about Li Qiang’s rise to power? Due to Qiang’s handling of Shanghai’s two-month lockdown last spring, in which residents struggled to access food and medical care, his ascension had as per AFP earlier seemed in doubt. Richard McGregor, a senior fellow at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, says, "if proof were needed that loyalty trumps meritocracy in Xi's China, Li Qiang's elevation provides it." "Li might be quite capable, and may make a good premier, but it is hard to see how he got there other than through Xi's personal favour," he added. Also read | Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far Neil Thomas, senior China analyst at Eurasia Group says that while "(Li) was seen as a business-friendly local leader but it's questionable whether these skills will translate well to overseeing macroeconomic coordination and regulatory agendas as premier.” Some even see Li’s loyalty to Xi as an impediment to making his mark in solving the problems China faces. They say that his appointment may serve as a way for President Xi to assert his own economic agenda. According to Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute, despite being the president's "trusted lieutenant", the new premier's ability to push through policies is still limited. "Xi will give Li Qiang more scope to run the State Council, but on the basis that Li Qiang will do what Xi wants and not go beyond the perimeter set by Xi," he remarked. What is expected of Li Qiang's premiership? In his current capacity as premier and the head of China’s cabinet, the State Council, in his capacity as premier and head of China's cabinet Li Qiang will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the country, as well as its macroeconomic policy. His ascension comes at a time when China’s economy is in serious trouble. Last year it grew by just three per cent. Owing to this, the ongoing annual session of the Chinese parliament has set a modest growth target of five per cent for 2023. This is the lowest goal set by China in nearly three decades. Also read | Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president As per Christopher Beddor, the deputy China research director at Gavekal Dragonomics, for Li, the top task this year will be beating the five per cent target without triggering serious inflation or piling on debt. "The leadership has already accepted two years of exceptionally weak economic growth in the name of COVID containment. Now that containment is gone, they won’t accept another," added Beddor. What is the current state of China’s economy? For the first time in 25 years of its survey, the American Chamber of Commerce in China found that China is no longer seen as a "top three investment priority". The results were based on a survey of companies, the majority of which said this. In recent years, some of Beijing’s most successful private firms like Alibaba have been battered by abrupt crackdowns and regulatory hurdles. Even as China tries to present a business-friendly face, in the face of global headwinds and weak confidence among consumers and the private sector, Li will have to work hard to restore confidence. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang?

China's new Premier Li Qiang warned on Monday that it would be no easy task for the country to hit its annual growth target, already one of Beijing's lowest in decades.

Not easy to achieve target, need to double our efforts for the target: Li Qiang

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised the need to strengthen the nation's security. Speaking for the first time since taking over for the historic third term as the nation's president, he said China must modernise its military to make it a "Great Wall of Steel". His statement comes amid mounting tensions with the United States.

"Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," he said at the closing of China's annual parliament session.

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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"We must fully promote the modernisation of national defence and the armed forces, and build the people's armed forces into a Great Wall of steel that effectively safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests," he added.

Xi also reiterated China's calls for unification with the self-ruled island of Taiwan and called for consolidated stability in once-restive Hong Kong.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/career-bureaucrat-xi-jinpings-ally-and-now-chinas-second-most-powerful-man-who-is-li-qiang-570929">Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang?</a>

"The trust of the people is the greatest driving force pushing me forward, and also a heavy responsibility on my shoulders," he said.

"The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical process."

As per AFP, he also thanked thousands of delegates at Beijing's Great Hall of the People for giving him the historic third term. Xi vowed to "take the needs of the country as my mission, and the interests of the people as my yardstick".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-parliament-names-us-sanctioned-gen-li-shangfu-as-defence-minister-571131">China’s parliament names US-sanctioned Gen Li Shangfu as defence minister</a>

Last week, Xi was for the third term anointed as the president of China. The latest five-year term adds to his power and makes him China's most powerful leader in generations. His third rise to the top position is a break from long-standing political precedent. From Between 1982 and March 2018, the presidentship of China was limited to two consecutive terms. However, the limit&nbsp;was removed at the 2018 National People's Congress.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised the need to strengthen the nation's security. Speaking for the first time since taking over for the historic third term as the nation's president, he said China must modernise its military to make it a "Great Wall of Steel".

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday emphasised the need to strengthen the nation's security. Speaking for the first time since taking over for the historic third term as the nation's president, he said China must modernise its military to make it a "Great Wall of Steel". His statement comes amid mounting tensions with the United States. "Security is the foundation for development, stability is the prerequisite for prosperity," he said at the closing of China's annual parliament session. Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president "We must fully promote the modernisation of national defence and the armed forces, and build the people's armed forces into a Great Wall of steel that effectively safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests," he added. Xi also reiterated China's calls for unification with the self-ruled island of Taiwan and called for consolidated stability in once-restive Hong Kong. Also read | Career bureaucrat, Xi Jinping's ally and now China's second most powerful man: Who is Li Qiang? "The trust of the people is the greatest driving force pushing me forward, and also a heavy responsibility on my shoulders," he said. "The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an irreversible historical process." As per AFP, he also thanked thousands of delegates at Beijing's Great Hall of the People for giving him the historic third term. Xi vowed to "take the needs of the country as my mission, and the interests of the people as my yardstick". Also read | China’s parliament names US-sanctioned Gen Li Shangfu as defence minister Last week, Xi was for the third term anointed as the president of China. The latest five-year term adds to his power and makes him China's most powerful leader in generations. His third rise to the top position is a break from long-standing political precedent. From Between 1982 and March 2018, the presidentship of China was limited to two consecutive terms. However, the limit was removed at the 2018 National People's Congress. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Xi Jinping calls for fortification of armed forces into 'Great Wall of Steel'

The newly-appointed Chinese Premier Li Qiang has announced four new Vice Premiers, the Chinese Premier has also nominated China's future minister of Defence Ministers of State, Security and Public Security as well. With this the newly-elected top official has set the tone for how he is going to monitor the world's second-largest economy.

China's Li Qiang makes first announcements, nominates future Defence Minister

China: Li Shangfu to be new Defence Minister; newly-elected Li Qiang sets tone for his term

China's third-term President Xi Jinping on Saturday,&nbsp;during the ongoing annual meeting of China's parliament, appointed his close ally and confidant Li Qiang to the post of premier. The role, as per Reuters, is charged with managing the nation's economy. 63-year-old Li Qiang is a close ally of the ‘supreme leader’ Xi Jinping and even served as his chief of staff between 2004 and 2007.

Li&nbsp;Qiang, the former Communist Party chief of Shanghai, replaces Li Keqiang. The former premier&nbsp;served two five-year terms.

Watch |&nbsp;Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

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Widely perceived to be pragmatic and business-friendly, the new premier faces the daunting task of shoring up China's uneven economic recovery. With weak confidence among consumers and the private sector, and global headwinds, the nation's economy is weighted down after three years of COVID-19 curbs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-xi-jinping-securing-third-term-as-chinas-president-a-look-at-his-political-career-570544">Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far</a>

It grew by merely 3 per cent last year. On the opening day of the current parliament session, Beijing has set a modest 2023 growth target of around 5 per cent — its lowest goal in nearly three decades.

Christopher Beddor, deputy China research director at Gavekal Dragonomics, says Li's top task this year will be beating the growth target without triggering serious inflation or piling on debt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-secures-third-term-as-chinas-president-570435">Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president</a>

His rise to premiership comes amid the biggest government reshuffle in a decade&nbsp;as Xi installs a slate of loyalists in key positions. His rise to power also comes amid rising tensions with the West.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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China's third-term President Xi Jinping on Saturday, during the ongoing annual meeting of China's parliament, appointed his close ally and confidant Li Qiang to the post of premier.

China's third-term President Xi Jinping on Saturday, during the ongoing annual meeting of China's parliament, appointed his close ally and confidant Li Qiang to the post of premier. The role, as per Reuters, is charged with managing the nation's economy. 63-year-old Li Qiang is a close ally of the ‘supreme leader’ Xi Jinping and even served as his chief of staff between 2004 and 2007. Li Qiang, the former Communist Party chief of Shanghai, replaces Li Keqiang. The former premier served two five-year terms. Watch | Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president Widely perceived to be pragmatic and business-friendly, the new premier faces the daunting task of shoring up China's uneven economic recovery. With weak confidence among consumers and the private sector, and global headwinds, the nation's economy is weighted down after three years of COVID-19 curbs. Also read | Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far It grew by merely 3 per cent last year. On the opening day of the current parliament session, Beijing has set a modest 2023 growth target of around 5 per cent — its lowest goal in nearly three decades. Christopher Beddor, deputy China research director at Gavekal Dragonomics, says Li's top task this year will be beating the growth target without triggering serious inflation or piling on debt. Also read | Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president His rise to premiership comes amid the biggest government reshuffle in a decade as Xi installs a slate of loyalists in key positions. His rise to power also comes amid rising tensions with the West. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Xi Jinping appoints longtime ally and confidant Li Qiang as China’s new premier

China's 3000-member legislature, the National People's Congress (NPC), began its annual meeting in Beijing on Sunday where delegates evaluated government reports. The session will go on till 13 March and is expected to cover a broad number of issues, both domestic and international.&nbsp;

Speaking at the start of China's 14th legislature, outgoing premier Li Keqiang called for Taiwan's "peaceful reunification" and vowed to take firm action against the island nation's independence. "We should promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advance the process of China's peaceful reunification," the premier said.&nbsp;

The country will also&nbsp;increase military spending by more than seven per cent this year, it was announced at the meet. While China's military budget currently stands at&nbsp;around $225 billion, experts believe it is actually a lot higher than what it reports.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mauritian-foreign-minister-alan-ganoo-praises-indias-leadership-at-g20-highlights-impact-of-ukraine-conflict-568771">Mauritian Foreign Minister Alan Ganoo praises India's leadership at G20, highlights impact of Ukraine conflict</a>

At the opening of the annual meeting, Li upheld Beijing's one-China principle and urged that the Chinese government should implement party policy for "resolving the Taiwan question" and "take resolute steps to oppose Taiwan independence and promote reunification."&nbsp;

While addressing 3,000 delegates at Beijing's enormous Great Hall of the People, Li, in a separate statement, said the armed forces should boost combat preparedness. However, this particular statement figured no mention of Taiwan specifically.&nbsp;

Reacting over Li's remarks, Taiwan's China-policy making Mainland Affairs Council said that Beijing should "respect the Taiwanese people's commitment to the core concepts of holding fast to the sovereignty, democracy and freedom."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-foreign-minister-naledi-pandor-sees-indias-g20-leadership-as-opportunity-for-global-south-568817">South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor sees India's G20 leadership as opportunity for Global South</a>

For the last three years, China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has intensified its military activities close to the island. China held military drills near Taiwan, in reaction to Nancy Pelosi, the then-Speaker of the US House, visiting Taipei in August.

Beijing has frequently rejected the Taiwan president's offers of dialogue because it considers them to be separatist. Beijing's claims of sovereignty are vigorously contested by Taiwan's government, which maintains that only the 23 million residents of the island can choose its destiny.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africas-foreign-minister-speaks-to-wion-on-india-ties-russia-ukraine-conflict-568786">South Africa's Foreign Minister speaks to WION on India ties, Russia Ukraine conflict</a>

Li Qiang, who was placed second after Xi, is now expected to be confirmed as premier. On the last day of the session, Li will make his first appearance in front of the general public during a televised media conference where he will respond to questions that have been submitted beforehand.

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China's 3000-member legislature, the National People's Congress (NPC), began its annual meeting in Beijing on Sunday where delegates evaluated government reports.

China's 3000-member legislature, the National People's Congress (NPC), began its annual meeting in Beijing on Sunday where delegates evaluated government reports. The session will go on till 13 March and is expected to cover a broad number of issues, both domestic and international. Speaking at the start of China's 14th legislature, outgoing premier Li Keqiang called for Taiwan's "peaceful reunification" and vowed to take firm action against the island nation's independence. "We should promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advance the process of China's peaceful reunification," the premier said. The country will also increase military spending by more than seven per cent this year, it was announced at the meet. While China's military budget currently stands at around $225 billion, experts believe it is actually a lot higher than what it reports. Also Read | Mauritian Foreign Minister Alan Ganoo praises India's leadership at G20, highlights impact of Ukraine conflict At the opening of the annual meeting, Li upheld Beijing's one-China principle and urged that the Chinese government should implement party policy for "resolving the Taiwan question" and "take resolute steps to oppose Taiwan independence and promote reunification." While addressing 3,000 delegates at Beijing's enormous Great Hall of the People, Li, in a separate statement, said the armed forces should boost combat preparedness. However, this particular statement figured no mention of Taiwan specifically. Reacting over Li's remarks, Taiwan's China-policy making Mainland Affairs Council said that Beijing should "respect the Taiwanese people's commitment to the core concepts of holding fast to the sovereignty, democracy and freedom." Also Read | South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor sees India's G20 leadership as opportunity for Global South For the last three years, China, which claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory, has intensified its military activities close to the island. China held military drills near Taiwan, in reaction to Nancy Pelosi, the then-Speaker of the US House, visiting Taipei in August. Beijing has frequently rejected the Taiwan president's offers of dialogue because it considers them to be separatist. Beijing's claims of sovereignty are vigorously contested by Taiwan's government, which maintains that only the 23 million residents of the island can choose its destiny. Watch | South Africa's Foreign Minister speaks to WION on India ties, Russia Ukraine conflict Li Qiang, who was placed second after Xi, is now expected to be confirmed as premier. On the last day of the session, Li will make his first appearance in front of the general public during a televised media conference where he will respond to questions that have been submitted beforehand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China announces 7% hike in military budget, calls for 'peaceful reunification' of Taiwan at annual meet

The picture has cleared as to who will become China's next premier after&nbsp;Li Keqiang steps down in March next year. Reportedly, Communist Party of China (CPC) Shanghai chief Li Qiang followed President Xi Jinping onto the stage at the&nbsp;Great Hall of the People on Sunday as the curtains came down on the once-in-five-year party congress.&nbsp;

That Li walked behind Xi was enough to suggest that the Chinese president had finally picked his no. 2. According to domain experts, the Shanghai party boss has managed to leapfrog&nbsp;other much-qualified candidates, solely because of his personal history with Xi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xis-new-military-appointment-can-spark-a-crisis-with-us-taiwan-reports-527907">Read more:&nbsp;Xi's new military appointment can spark a crisis with US-Taiwan: Reports</a>

Xi is extremely selective when it comes to who makes the close circle around him. And Li has been one of the few men that has followed Xi for the majority of his life. Their connection dates back to 2004 when Xi was CPC's&nbsp;Zhejiang province chief.

At the time, Li was his chief of staff or in more popular parlance, his right-hand man. The association lasted three years till 2007 when Xi left for Shanghai to pursue his national-level goals.&nbsp;

Xi, however, rewarded the loyalty of Li by making him the governor of&nbsp;Zhejiang and later, the party secretary of&nbsp;Jiangsu province. The move was aimed at granting Li the regional experience of managing the party so that when the time came for taking on bigger duties for Xi, he was prepared.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cheng-quanguo-architect-of-the-uyghur-genocide-ousted-from-chinas-top-leadership-body-527672" target="_blank">Read more: Chen Quanguo, architect of the 'Uyghur genocide', ousted from China’s top leadership body</a>

After Xi became the president in 2012, Li remained in touch with him. Up&nbsp;until 2017, Li even drafted and edited numerous speeches of Xi while accompanying him whenever he came to&nbsp;Zhejiang or&nbsp;Jiangsu.&nbsp;

In the same year, Xi gave another promotion to Li and brought him to Shanghai and made him the party chief pf the region.&nbsp;

Xi's trust in Li can be gauged from the fact that despite having a rather muddled policy regarding Covid in Shanghai, Li managed to receive the nod.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;Shanghai imposes fresh restrictions as COVID-19 cases continue to rise

Experts believe that Li simply executed the orders passed along by Xi and weathered the criticism from the detractors, making him all the more loyal and indispensable to the CPC general secretary.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-world-needs-china-says-xi-jinping-after-being-elected-as-the-general-secretary-527698">Read more:&nbsp;'The world needs China,' says Xi after getting third term as general secretary, at par with Mao</a>

However, unlike his predecessor&nbsp;Li Keqiang who had the courage to defy Xi on occasion, Li may have a hard road ahead as he owes his entire political career to the benevolence of Xi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The picture has cleared as to who will become China's next premier after Li Keqiang steps down in March next year. Reportedly, Communist Party of China (CPC) Shanghai chief Li Qiang followed President Xi Jinping onto the stage at the Great Hall of the People on Sunday as the curtains came down on the once-in-five-year party congress.

The picture has cleared as to who will become China's next premier after Li Keqiang steps down in March next year. Reportedly, Communist Party of China (CPC) Shanghai chief Li Qiang followed President Xi Jinping onto the stage at the Great Hall of the People on Sunday as the curtains came down on the once-in-five-year party congress. That Li walked behind Xi was enough to suggest that the Chinese president had finally picked his no. 2. According to domain experts, the Shanghai party boss has managed to leapfrog other much-qualified candidates, solely because of his personal history with Xi. Read more: Xi's new military appointment can spark a crisis with US-Taiwan: Reports Xi is extremely selective when it comes to who makes the close circle around him. And Li has been one of the few men that has followed Xi for the majority of his life. Their connection dates back to 2004 when Xi was CPC's Zhejiang province chief. At the time, Li was his chief of staff or in more popular parlance, his right-hand man. The association lasted three years till 2007 when Xi left for Shanghai to pursue his national-level goals. Xi, however, rewarded the loyalty of Li by making him the governor of Zhejiang and later, the party secretary of Jiangsu province. The move was aimed at granting Li the regional experience of managing the party so that when the time came for taking on bigger duties for Xi, he was prepared. Read more: Chen Quanguo, architect of the 'Uyghur genocide', ousted from China’s top leadership body After Xi became the president in 2012, Li remained in touch with him. Up until 2017, Li even drafted and edited numerous speeches of Xi while accompanying him whenever he came to Zhejiang or Jiangsu. In the same year, Xi gave another promotion to Li and brought him to Shanghai and made him the party chief pf the region. Xi's trust in Li can be gauged from the fact that despite having a rather muddled policy regarding Covid in Shanghai, Li managed to receive the nod. Read more: Shanghai imposes fresh restrictions as COVID-19 cases continue to rise Experts believe that Li simply executed the orders passed along by Xi and weathered the criticism from the detractors, making him all the more loyal and indispensable to the CPC general secretary. Read more: 'The world needs China,' says Xi after getting third term as general secretary, at par with Mao However, unlike his predecessor Li Keqiang who had the courage to defy Xi on occasion, Li may have a hard road ahead as he owes his entire political career to the benevolence of Xi. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Li Qiang, the man poised to become China's next premier

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