Chinese leader Xi Jinping arrived in Moscow on Monday for a three-day visit that shows off Beijing’s new diplomatic swagger and offers a welcome political lift for Russian President Vladimir Putin just days after an international arrest warrant was issued for him on war crimes charges related to the war in Ukraine.

Xi Jinping on 3-day state visit to Moscow

In a major diplomatic boost for the Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Chinese President Xi Jinping is all set to visit Moscow tomorrow. In an apparent show of support for the Russian President and also in a bid to act as a mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. This is the Chinese President's first visit to Moscow since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began.

China's Xi Jinping to visit Russia, to meet Putin

Situation at the India-China border remains tense as peace talks between Foreign Ministers have not yet yielded the desired results. With no signs of a breakthrough in de-escalating the tension at the border, it remains to be seen whether China's Xi Jinping will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

S Jaishankar says 'Situation stands fragile' on India-China relationship

Chinese President Xi Jinping is all set to visit Moscow tomorrow. This is being seen as a major diplomatic boost for the Russian President Vladimir Putin who has largely been isolated by various countries. China hopes to act as a mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict but the big question is can China actually be an honest broker for peace?

Major diplomatic boost for Vladimir Putin as Xi Jinping to visit Russia?

China’s president is to visit Russia next week in an apparent show of support for Vladimir Putin, the Chinese foreign ministry has said.The Kremlin also announced the visit, scheduled for 20-22 March, saying it would take place “at the invitation of Vladimir Putin”.

Xi Jinping to visit Russia in show of support for Vladimir Putin

Chinese President Xi Jinping will be on a two-day visit to Moscow from March 20 to 22. On agenda is brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine. China has been touting itself as a mediator, but its deepening ties with Russia have cast doubts. Mohammed Saleh reports.

Gravitas: Xi's Moscow visit | What if the peace plan fails?

A Chinese chatbot refused to answer questions on President Xi Jinping, saying the query 'couldn't pass a safety review'. Has China now begun censoring and rigging artificial intelligence?

Gravitas: China's chatbot refuses to answer questions on Xi Jinping

Hours after China's&nbsp;foreign ministry announced that the Chinese leader Xi Jinping will embark on a three-day state visit to Russia, the Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi will sign a declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'a new era'.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-set-to-visit-russia-from-march-20-22-kremlin-confirms-572906">Xi Jinping set to visit Russia from March 20-22, on trip ‘for friendship and peace’</a>

Xi Jinping will begin his Russia visit on&nbsp;Monday at the invitation of his Moscow counterpart Vladimir Putin.

The two leaders are expected to discuss the Ukraine crisis, as well as ways to boost bilateral ties. In February, China sought a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine in a 12-point plan&nbsp;issued on the first anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war.

The Kremlin added that the two leaders would meet for an informal lunch on Monday and will hold&nbsp;formal talks on Tuesday.

"Contacts between the president and (Xi) will begin on March 20 in the afternoon. It will be a face-to-face conversation. There will be an informal lunch. And March 21 will actually be the day of negotiations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

<h2>Xi Jinping Russia visit: What to expect?</h2>

According to the Kremlin, the negotiations will include a discussion of "current issues of further development of relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Xi Jinping to visit Russia in show of support for Vladimir Putin

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The two sides also plan to exchange opinions within the context of deepening of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the international arena. The countries are expected to sign a number of important bilateral documents.

This is a breaking story. More information to be added soon.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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Hours after China's foreign ministry announced that the Chinese leader Xi Jinping will embark on a three-day state visit to Russia, the Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi will sign a declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'a new era'.

Hours after China's foreign ministry announced that the Chinese leader Xi Jinping will embark on a three-day state visit to Russia, the Kremlin said that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Xi will sign a declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'a new era'. ALSO READ | Xi Jinping set to visit Russia from March 20-22, on trip ‘for friendship and peace’ Xi Jinping will begin his Russia visit on Monday at the invitation of his Moscow counterpart Vladimir Putin. The two leaders are expected to discuss the Ukraine crisis, as well as ways to boost bilateral ties. In February, China sought a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine in a 12-point plan issued on the first anniversary of the Russia-Ukraine war. The Kremlin added that the two leaders would meet for an informal lunch on Monday and will hold formal talks on Tuesday. "Contacts between the president and (Xi) will begin on March 20 in the afternoon. It will be a face-to-face conversation. There will be an informal lunch. And March 21 will actually be the day of negotiations," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Xi Jinping Russia visit: What to expect? According to the Kremlin, the negotiations will include a discussion of "current issues of further development of relations of comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation between Russia and China." ALSO WATCH | Xi Jinping to visit Russia in show of support for Vladimir Putin × The two sides also plan to exchange opinions within the context of deepening of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the international arena. The countries are expected to sign a number of important bilateral documents. This is a breaking story. More information to be added soon. (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.

Putin, Xi to sign declaration as Russia-China ties enter 'new era': Kremlin

Chinese leader Xi Jinping will fly to Moscow next week to meet with President Vladimir Putin in his first visit to Russia since Putin launched his devastating invasion of Ukraine more than a year ago.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will make a state visit to Russia from March 20-22 at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin. The visit comes as China offers to broker peace in Ukraine.

Xi Jinping to make state visit to Russia from March 20-22

Chinese President Xi Jinping will be in Russia from March 20-22 for a state visit after he was invited by President Vladimir Putin. The visit comes as China offers to broker peace in Ukraine.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia from March 20-22

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit Russia from March 20 to 22. The visit comes as China called again for a ceasefire in the Russia-Ukraine war and for peace talks to resolve the conflict that began just over a year ago.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia next week amid Ukraine war

Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Russia has been confirmed for next week. He will be in Russia from March 20-22 for a state visit, Kremlin said Friday. President Vladimir Putin had earlier invited Xi to visit the country. The visit comes on the heels of an offer from China to broker peace in Ukraine. It will be Xi's first visit to the country since Russia's military intervention in Ukraine began in February last year.

Xi is also reportedly set to talk with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after his Moscow visit. China's peace plan offer has been viewed with scepticism by the West given Beijing's diplomatic support for Russia.

"During the talks, they will discuss topical issues of further development of comprehensive partnership relations and strategic cooperation between Russia and China," the Kremlin said.

"A number of important bilateral documents will be signed," it added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-will-speak-with-ukrainian-president-zelensky-after-moscow-visit-report-571764">Xi will speak with Ukrainian President Zelensky after Moscow visit: Report</a>

Beijing's foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying,&nbsp;in a Twitter message,&nbsp;said it will be a trip "for friendship and peace".

"On the basis of no-alliance, no-confrontation and no-targeting of any third party, China and Russia have been promoting greater democracy in international relations," she said.

She added that during the visit, China will uphold "an objective and fair position" on the Ukraine war and "play a constructive role in promoting talks for peace".

Earlier, the trip was touted to happen sometime around April end or May. Putin had talked about Xi's visit last month, but no definitive date was given. Xi last met Putin in September 2022, during a summit in central Asia.

China and Russia entered a "no limits" partnership in February 2022, when Putin visited Beijing for the opening of the Winter Olympics.&nbsp;

The two sides have since continued to reaffirm the strength of their ties. Trade between the two countries has flourished in the past year, with China being Russia's biggest buyer of oil.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
 
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Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Russia has been confirmed for next week. He will be in Russia from March 20-22 for a state visit, Kremlin said Friday. President Vladimir Putin had earlier invited Xi to visit the country.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Russia has been confirmed for next week. He will be in Russia from March 20-22 for a state visit, Kremlin said Friday. President Vladimir Putin had earlier invited Xi to visit the country. The visit comes on the heels of an offer from China to broker peace in Ukraine. It will be Xi's first visit to the country since Russia's military intervention in Ukraine began in February last year. Xi is also reportedly set to talk with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after his Moscow visit. China's peace plan offer has been viewed with scepticism by the West given Beijing's diplomatic support for Russia. "During the talks, they will discuss topical issues of further development of comprehensive partnership relations and strategic cooperation between Russia and China," the Kremlin said. "A number of important bilateral documents will be signed," it added. Also Read | Xi will speak with Ukrainian President Zelensky after Moscow visit: Report Beijing's foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying, in a Twitter message, said it will be a trip "for friendship and peace". "On the basis of no-alliance, no-confrontation and no-targeting of any third party, China and Russia have been promoting greater democracy in international relations," she said. She added that during the visit, China will uphold "an objective and fair position" on the Ukraine war and "play a constructive role in promoting talks for peace". Earlier, the trip was touted to happen sometime around April end or May. Putin had talked about Xi's visit last month, but no definitive date was given. Xi last met Putin in September 2022, during a summit in central Asia. China and Russia entered a "no limits" partnership in February 2022, when Putin visited Beijing for the opening of the Winter Olympics. The two sides have since continued to reaffirm the strength of their ties. Trade between the two countries has flourished in the past year, with China being Russia's biggest buyer of oil. (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 set to visit Russia from March 20-22, on trip ‘for friendship and peace’

Taiwan has lived for decades under constant threat of an invasion by china. Beijing claims taiwan as a part of its territory to be seized one day By force if required. However, many Taiwanese people consider their self-ruled island to be distinct - whether or not independence is ever officially declared. Taiwan's defence spending this year will focus on preparing weapons & equipment for a total blockade by china. Taiwan's ministry said it began reviewing strategic fuel reserves & repair abilities last year. The ministry said china has been conducting joint force operations. Beijing plans to control strategic choke points & deny access to foreign forces. China's military's eastern theatre command last year sent over 1,700 aircraft into Taiwan's air defence zone. That, as per Taiwan, is more than double the number from a year earlier & poses a 'substantial threat'. Just a few weeks back, Taiwan said it had spotted 19 Chinese air force planes in its air defence zone in 24 hours.

Taiwan braces for blockade by China | Xi Jinping plans to speak with Zelensky: WSJ Report

Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech Monday morning at the closing meeting of the first session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), the country's national legislature.

Xi Jinping addresses China's NPC closing session

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?

Xi Jinping has been appointed for an unprecedented third term as China's President. It maybe a ceremonial position but the man who holds it is by far the most powerful person in china after he was re-affirmed as the head of the Communist Party and the military last year. However he faces multiple challenges back home in Beijing and abroad.

China's Xi starts unprecedented third term

Chinese leader Xi Jinping vowed to bolster national security and build the military into a "great wall of steel," in the first speech of his precedent-breaking third term as president. The leader kicked off his speech by thanking his supporters for helping him seek a third term.

Xi vows to make China's military a 'great wall of steel' in first speech of new presidential term

Chinese President Xi Jinping plans to travel to Russia to meet his counterpart Vladimir Putin as soon as next week, people familiar with the matter said. The Kremlin declined to comment on reports of Xi’s visit.

Chinese President Xi Jinping to visit Russia as soon as next week, says reports

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'

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

Li Qiang is china’s new premier. Xi Jinping nominated Li Qing during the ongoing annual meeting of china's rubber-stamp parliament. As premier, Li Qing will manage the world's second-largest economy. 63-year-old Li Qing is a close ally of Xi Jinping and served as his chief of staff between 2004 and 2007. Back then, Xi Jinping was the provincial party secretary of eastern china's Zhejiang province. The incoming premier is widely perceived to be pragmatic and business-friendly. The Chinese economy is still emerging from the coronavirus pandemic. Weak global demand for exports, lingering U.S Tariff hikes, a shrinking workforce, and an aging population have compounded economic woes. Li Qiang will take office amid rising tensions with the west. The U.S. Is moving to block Beijing's access to key technologies. Many global companies are diversifying supply chains to hedge their china exposure. China's economy grew just 3% last year.

China appoints Xi Jinping loyalist as new Premier | Biggest government reshuffle in a decade

Here we bring you a quick round-up of top headlines - Xi Jinping has secured a precedent-breaking third five-year term as China’s president.

This World Headlines: Xi Jinping secures a third term

A gunman killed several people on Thursday (March 9) at Jehovah's Witness church in Germany's Hamburg city. The police said that the shooting took place at around 2000 GMT, adding, there were "one or more unknown" assailants. In China, Xi Jinping secured a third five-year term as the country's president. Following Xi's election, officials approved by him are set to be appointed or elected to fill top positions in the cabinet over the next two days. Meanwhile, job cuts by American companies over January and February this year hit the highest since 2009. A report by an employment firm said that technology, healthcare, retail, financial and fintech, and media and news announced job cuts.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more:&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-killed-in-hamburg-church-shootout-says-german-police-570410">Several killed in Hamburg church shooting, says German police'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/10/337751-untitled-design-2023-03-10t083800139.png?imwidth=1920" />

Several people were killed in a shootout that took place in a church in Hamburg, said German police on Thursday. The police confirmed that the shooting took place at around 2000 GMT and added that there were "one or more unknown" assailants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-secures-third-term-as-chinas-president-570435">Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China's President</a>

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Xi Jinping has secured a third five-year term as China's president, tightening his grip as the country's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. He was re-elected as head of the country's Central Military Commission in a unanimous vote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/layoffs-by-us-companies-over-jan-feb-hit-highest-since-2009-says-report-570447">Layoffs by US companies over Jan-Feb hit highest since 2009, says report</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/03/10/337766-jobs-hiring.JPG?imwidth=1920" />

Job cuts by American companies over January and February this year hit the highest since 2009, with the technology sector accounting for more than a third of the over 180,000 job cuts announced.

WATCH | Netanyahu’s planned judicial overhaul divides Israeli military

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A gunman killed several people on Thursday (March 9) at Jehovah's Witness church in Germany's Hamburg city. The police said that the shooting took place at around 2000 GMT, adding, there were "one or more unknown" assailants.

A gunman killed several people on Thursday (March 9) at Jehovah's Witness church in Germany's Hamburg city. The police said that the shooting took place at around 2000 GMT, adding, there were "one or more unknown" assailants. In China, Xi Jinping secured a third five-year term as the country's president. Following Xi's election, officials approved by him are set to be appointed or elected to fill top positions in the cabinet over the next two days. Meanwhile, job cuts by American companies over January and February this year hit the highest since 2009. A report by an employment firm said that technology, healthcare, retail, financial and fintech, and media and news announced job cuts. Click on the headlines to read more: Several killed in Hamburg church shooting, says German police' Several people were killed in a shootout that took place in a church in Hamburg, said German police on Thursday. The police confirmed that the shooting took place at around 2000 GMT and added that there were "one or more unknown" assailants. Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China's President Xi Jinping has secured a third five-year term as China's president, tightening his grip as the country's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. He was re-elected as head of the country's Central Military Commission in a unanimous vote. Layoffs by US companies over Jan-Feb hit highest since 2009, says report Job cuts by American companies over January and February this year hit the highest since 2009, with the technology sector accounting for more than a third of the over 180,000 job cuts announced. WATCH | Netanyahu’s planned judicial overhaul divides Israeli military × WATCH | Joe Biden lays out budget plan, challenges Republicans to do same ×

Morning brief: Several killed in shooting in Germany church; Xi secures 3rd term as China's prez, & more

China's leader Xi Jinping has secured a historic third term as president from the country's rubber-stamp parliament. This comes after Xi locked in another five years as head of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in October.

China's Xi Jinping begins historic third term as President | WION Dispatch

Xi Jinping on Friday (March 10) secured an unprecedented third five-year presidential term in China, further tightening his control as the country faces increasing challenges at home and globally.

Xi Jinping on Friday (March 10) secured an unprecedented third five-year presidential term in China, further tightening his control as the country faces increasing challenges at home and globally. Nearly 3,000 members of Parliament, the National People's Congress, voted unanimously for Xi in an election where there was no other candidate. With this, Xi, 69, has become China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong, who founded the People's Republic, the news agency Reuters reported on Friday. He extends his tenure as president amid increasingly adversarial relations with the United States and western countries over Taiwan, China's backing of Russia, trade and human rights. Here's a look at Xi Jinping's political career so far: The beginnings Xi Jinping was born on June 15, 1953, to Xi Zhongxun and Qi Xin. His father, Xi Zhongxun, was a communist revolutionary and a political leader. According to the DW, Zhongxun was purged in 1962 and was then persecuted and jailed during the cultural revolution in China. Xi Jinping had applied to join the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) several times but was rejected due to his father's political history. He was finally accepted as a member of the CCP in 1974, serving as branch secretary and this marked the beginning of his career in politics, according to the DW. From 1975 to 1979, Xi studied chemical engineering at the Tsinghua University. After graduation, he worked as a secretary for Geng Biao, the then-vice premier and minister of national defence in the Chinese government. ALSO READ | Troubled by sanctions, Xi Jinping wants China to be self-reliant in tech, food production But in 1982, Xi gave up this post and started working as the CCP's secretary in the Herbei province. As the years passed, he was elevated to more senior roles such as numerous provincial governor positions and then the party's chief in Shanghai. In contrast to his father, Xi had a reputation for prudence and for following the party line. In October 2007, he was elected as one of the nine members of the standing committee of CCP's political bureau, the highest ruling body in the party. And a year later, Xi Jinping was elected as the vice president of China. As vice president, Xi focused on conservation efforts and improving foreign relations as he visited several countries including the United States, Germany, Turkey and Japan. The president of China On November 15, 2012, Xi Jinping was elected as the general secretary of the CCP and chairman of the Central Military Commission by the 18th Central Committee of the party, which informally made him China's leader. And on March 14, 2013, Xi was officially elected as the country's president. In 2018, China's parliament elected him for a second term and unanimously voted in favour of an amendment to the Constitution that removed presidential term limits. Previously, China had a limit of two terms but the amendment allowed Xi Jinping to stay in power indefinitely. As president, Xi called for the great rejuvenation of China and for the country to take its due place in the world. However, his leadership has been marked by intolerance for dissent, and a desire to control which has infiltrated almost every aspect of life in modern China. Xi has cracked down on civil society movements, independent media and academic freedoms, overseen alleged human rights abuses in the Xinjiang region, and promoted a far more aggressive foreign policy than his predecessor Hu Jintao. He has also been severely criticised by governments and health organisations for the handling of the Covid pandemic. The 69-year-old Xi has used nationalism as a tool for his own and the CCP's legitimacy among the population. Economic challenges that Xi faces now With Xi securing a third presidential term, he now has to face many economic challenges. China, which is the world's second-largest economy, is facing a tough economic recovery from the three years of the government's zero-Covid policy, a fragile confidence among consumers and businesses and a weak international demand for Chinese exports, a report by the news agency Reuters said. The abrupt ending of the zero-Covid policy led to a spike in infections and deaths. Several regions of China saw their hospitals overburdened by infected patients, a shortage of antiviral medicines and crematoriums being full. In 2022, China's economy grew just three per cent, one of its worst performances in decades. During a parliament session, the government set a modest growth target for this year of just around five per cent. Willy Lam, a senior fellow at the Jamestown Foundation, a think tank based in the United States, said that in the third term as China's president, Xi Jinping would need to focus on economic revival. "But if he (Xi Jinping) continues with what he has been doing — tighter party and state control over the private sector and confrontation with the West, his prospects for success won't be encouraging," Lam told Reuters. (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.

Explained: Xi Jinping's rule in China extended. A look at his political career so far

Xi Jinping has secured a record third five-year term as China's president, further tightening his grip as the country's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. Reports said the elevation by the rubber-stamp parliament on Friday (March 10) paves the way for Xi to be the leader for life.

He was also re-elected as head of the country's Central Military Commission in a unanimous vote.&nbsp;Nearly 3,000 members of China's parliament, the National People's Congress (NPC), voted in the Great Hall of the People for the 69-year-old to become president again. The election had no other candidate.

The voting lasted for about an hour and the electronic counting was completed in about 15 minutes.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Xi on his third term as China's leader. In a statement, Putin&nbsp;hailed the strengthening ties between the two countries.

“Dear friend, please accept sincere congratulations,” Putin said in a statement released by the Kremlin. "Russia highly values your personal contribution toward the strengthening of ties... and strategic cooperation between our nations."

Xi had done away with presidential term limits in 2018, clearing the way for him to gain another term. Last October, he was reconfirmed for another five years as general secretary of the central committee of the ruling Communist Party, making things set in his favour.

Following Xi's election, officials approved by him are set to be appointed or elected to fill top positions in the cabinet over the next two days. This will include premier-in-waiting Li Qiang, who is expected to be named to China's No. 2 post, putting him in charge of managing the world's second-largest economy.

The election sets up Xi to become communist China's longest-serving president.&nbsp;He might even be able to rule well into his seventies, especially in the absence of an opponent.

Xi faced unprecedented opposition from the people of the country for the zero-Covid policy that kept people indoors and hurt the economy. Following the abrupt scrapping of the policy, China witnessed a wave of infections and deaths, but the reported numbers were mostly less than what the experts predicted to be.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Xi Jinping has secured a record third five-year term as China's president, further tightening his grip as the country's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. Reports said the elevation by the rubber-stamp parliament on Friday (March 10) paves the way for Xi to be the leader for life.

Xi Jinping has secured a record third five-year term as China's president, further tightening his grip as the country's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. Reports said the elevation by the rubber-stamp parliament on Friday (March 10) paves the way for Xi to be the leader for life. He was also re-elected as head of the country's Central Military Commission in a unanimous vote. Nearly 3,000 members of China's parliament, the National People's Congress (NPC), voted in the Great Hall of the People for the 69-year-old to become president again. The election had no other candidate. The voting lasted for about an hour and the electronic counting was completed in about 15 minutes. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Xi on his third term as China's leader. In a statement, Putin hailed the strengthening ties between the two countries. “Dear friend, please accept sincere congratulations,” Putin said in a statement released by the Kremlin. "Russia highly values your personal contribution toward the strengthening of ties... and strategic cooperation between our nations." Xi had done away with presidential term limits in 2018, clearing the way for him to gain another term. Last October, he was reconfirmed for another five years as general secretary of the central committee of the ruling Communist Party, making things set in his favour. Following Xi's election, officials approved by him are set to be appointed or elected to fill top positions in the cabinet over the next two days. This will include premier-in-waiting Li Qiang, who is expected to be named to China's No. 2 post, putting him in charge of managing the world's second-largest economy. The election sets up Xi to become communist China's longest-serving president. He might even be able to rule well into his seventies, especially in the absence of an opponent. Xi faced unprecedented opposition from the people of the country for the zero-Covid policy that kept people indoors and hurt the economy. Following the abrupt scrapping of the policy, China witnessed a wave of infections and deaths, but the reported numbers were mostly less than what the experts predicted to be. (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.

Leader for life: Xi Jinping secures historic third term as China’s president

Xi Jinping has been handed an unprecedented third term as president, capping an ascent in which he has become China’s most powerful leader in generations.

Xi Jinping handed unprecedented third term as China’s president

Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged his countrymen to speed up science and technology development in the backdrop of sanctions and other trade concerns to ensure greater self-reliance.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged his countrymen to speed up science and technology development in the backdrop of sanctions and other trade concerns to ensure greater self-reliance. Xi made the statement at the closed-door meeting of the National People’s Congress (NPC) on Sunday. “To open up new areas and new arenas in development and foster new growth drivers and new strengths in face of fierce international competition, China should ultimately rely on scientific and technological innovation,” he said, according to a readout issued by the state media. Read more: US, Japan, Netherlands may announce ban on chipmaking tools’ export to China: Report The annual meeting of the Chinese parliament that runs concurrently with Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) advisory board began on Sunday and is expected to last until the next week. The main consensus to come out of the meeting was to set up a robust manufacturing environment and a dependable food grain supply that is not affected by international markets. The draft budget figures issued by the Chinese state media showed that the government had increased the funding for stockpiling grain and other food items by more than 13 per cent. With the US imposing restrictions on Chinese access to semiconductors and AI technology and issuing restrictions on some Chinese companies, Xi is attempting to change the tide through his 'self-reliance' call. WATCH | US-China battle over semiconductors Last year in October, the US announced sweeping export controls on advanced, high-performance computing chips to China. Citing the reason for the move, the commerce department said it was aimed to prevent 'sensitive technologies with military applications from being acquired by China's intelligence and security services. In the immediate aftermath, Beijing lashed out and criticised Washington for its malicious block. “Out of the need to maintain its sci-tech hegemony, the US abuses export control measures to maliciously block and suppress Chinese companies,” said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning. “It will not only damage the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies, but also affect American companies’ interests,” she added. Read more: China responds angrily after US announces chip export restrictions The last couple of years have been damaging for the tech sector in China. Taking an authoritarian approach, Xi has come after the likes of Alibaba founder Jack Ma and other tech behemoths as they failed to toe his line. The volta-face by Xi is an attempt to arrest the slide and ensure that the tech sector remains on the ascendency, according to experts. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Troubled by sanctions, Xi Jinping wants China to be self-reliant in tech, food production

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