Wang Yongcheng, a deputy to China's 14th National People's Congress, speaks at Deputies' Corridor in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, March 8, 2024. /CFP
China has been actively promoting the political participation of individuals with disabilities, aiming to ensure their equal and inclusive integration into society, said Wang Yongcheng, a deputy to China's 14th National People's Congress (NPC) at Deputies' Corridor in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Friday.
Of the nearly 3,000 deputies who embarked on their five-year term in 2023, Wang stands out as the only representative with visual impairment. However, this has not hindered him in fulfilling his duties.
"At this year's NPC gathering, special arrangements were made to provide me with conference documents in braille, ensuring that I could read them with ease," said Wang. "These thoughtful details not only eliminated barriers in fulfilling my duties but also made me feel the care and concern of our nation and society towards individuals with disabilities. It is through such inclusive measures that people with disabilities can actively participate in social life, experience greater equality, and share the achievements of our societal development."
Wang Yongcheng, a deputy to China's 14th National People's Congress, reads the braille version of the government work report in Beijing, China, March 8, 2024. /CFP
"Although I am visually impaired, I'm determined to pursue my dreams alongside my fellow brothers and sisters with disabilities, using my diligent hands," he added. "I understand that my role extends beyond representing the voices of individuals with disabilities at the NPC. It is also about conveying the care and love of the Party and the people to the broader community of people with disabilities. I aim to encourage my fellow brothers and sisters with disabilities to embrace life with resilience, to forge a path of self-improvement, positivity, and to shine brightly in their own unique ways."