Given the rising tensions in the world, China wants to increase its military spending by 7.2 percent. At the start of the annual meeting of the People’s Congress in Beijing on Sunday, Premier Li Keqiang warned of increasing global uncertainties. In his report to the nearly 3,000 deputies in the Great Hall of the People, Premier Li Keqiang called for modernization of the armed forces, which should “strengthen their combat readiness and improve their military capabilities”.
“Uncertainties in the external environment are increasing,” says Li Keqiang. The prime minister set “around five percent” as a growth target for the second largest economy this year. A growth of 5.5 percent was already envisaged last year, but due to the burden of corona lockdowns, forced quarantine and mass testing, that target was ultimately not achieved. Only three percent could be reached by 2022 – the second worst growth rate since 1976.
After the end of the zero-Covid policy three months ago, the prime minister says he expects the economy to recover strongly. However, he warned of unpredictability in the global economy and political pressures. “Global inflation remains high, global economic and trade growth is losing momentum,” said Li Keqiang. “External efforts to suppress and contain China are increasing,” the prime minister said – a thinly veiled reference to the United States, which Beijing has accused of trying to hinder China’s rise in the world.
“Peaceful Reunion”
The day before, a spokesman for the People’s Congress justified the increase in military spending with “complex security challenges” and China’s “responsibility as a great power”. Given Beijing’s mounting threats against the democratic island republic of Taiwan, China’s disputed territorial claims in the East and South China Seas, and rising rivalries with the US, the increased expansion of China’s military is viewed with concern.
The prime minister firmly opposed Taiwan’s independence and called for a “peaceful reunification”. “We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are one family – bound by blood.” China considers the geostrategically important island as part of the People’s Republic and threatens to conquer it. Taiwan, on the other hand, has long considered itself independent. Tensions have increased recently. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, international concern is growing that China could take similar measures against Taiwan.
Not a word about the Russian offensive war
In his hour-long report, the prime minister did not say a word about Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. A week ago, China presented a position paper on the war that disappointed internationally as it showed no new initiative to settle the conflict. There are also no indications that China wants to use its influence on Russia. In fact, since the invasion began a year ago, China has supported Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The session of the People’s Congress, which lasts until March 13, will focus on the formation of the new government. Party leader Xi Jinping will continue to consolidate his power by promoting close confidants. At the party conference in October, the 69-year-old defied previous age and tenure terms and enshrined his permanent leadership role in the party constitution. He will be confirmed for a third term as president on Friday – something that has never happened before in China.
After two terms in office, 67-year-old Prime Minister Li Keqiang is retiring due to age. Nor did he belong to Xi Jinping’s camp. Former Shanghai party leader Li Qiang, 63, has been elected as the new prime minister and his nomination is expected to be approved on Saturday. Xi’s longtime close follower is said to have economic expertise. He is not seen as an ideologue or a simple yes nod, but rather as a pragmatic manager.
The posts of deputy prime minister and top positions at the Treasury, the powerful Reform and Development Commission (NDRC), the central bank and the banking and securities regulator are also being filled. (sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
