China's Political Season: Top legislature concludes its annual session

World
Europe

To Beijing where China's annual political season wrapped today. At the closing meeting, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed confidence in the nation's future and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang reaffirmed China's commitment to the opening up policy. CGTN's Timothy Ulrich has more.

The closing meeting of the NPC session approved a number of key documents. Lawmakers adopted the new supervision law, a plan for economic and social development and a budget at central and local levels.

The newly-elected President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech. He reaffirmed a commitment to serve the people and fulfill his legal obligations.

XI JINPING CHINESE PRESIDENT "It is a noble duty and a great responsibility to serve as the president of the People's Republic of China. I will continue to serve as a servant of the people, accept supervision by the people, and will never betray the great trust of the NPC deputies and Chinese people of all ethnic groups."

President Xi said the Chinese people are closer to realizing the dream of national rejuvenation. He also said the Chinese people would defeat any separatist activities.

XI JINPING CHINESE PRESIDENT "Any action that aims to divide the country is due to fail, and will be condemned by the people and punished by history."

President Xi also addressed concerns about the impact of China's development, saying China will not pose a threat to any country.

XI JINPING CHINESE PRESIDENT "China will never seek hegemony or engage in expansion. Chinese people are committed to making contributions to world peace and development. Our wishes and actions should not be misinterpreted or distorted."

At a press conference after the meeting, Premier Li Keqiang echoed President Xi's vision for China's foreign policy.

On China-US trade, the premier warned there would be no winner in a trade war, saying that both sides should act rationally rather than emotionally.

Premier Li also commented on the recent de-escalation of tensions on the Korean Peninsula, saying that China supports all efforts to resolve the issues through talks.

The premier said there is huge potential for more trade between China and Russia.

On China-Japan relations, Li said he would consider paying an official visit to Japan this year and wants to maintain the momentum of improving ties.

Premier Li also pledged that China will continue to open up its market and lower tariffs.

LI KEQIANG CHINESE PREMIER "pening up is a basic state policy. If there's one thing that's going to be different from the past, it will be that China will open even wider. With our economy so integrated with the world's, closing our door would only block China's own way."