Every evening over the next two weeks, we'll recap the most important developments from the Two Session's political events. Today we'll focus on a press conference given by China's economic planning body, the National Development and Reform Commission.

China's political season continues in Beijing, and the National Development and Reform Commission has laid out its priorities for the year.

He Lifeng, the head of the economic planning body, said he is confident that this year's growth target of 6 point 5 percent can be met. NDRC Chairman He Lifeng said domestic consumption will continue to drive economic growth. Vice Chairman Ning Jizhe said that China will continue to cut excess industrial capacity. Steel production will be reduced by 30 million tons this year and coal production by 150 million tons. Ning Jizhe also said China will take new measures to boost foreign investment. That includes fully opening up general manufacturing and greater openness in the service sector.

NING JIZHE, VICE CHAIRMAN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REFORM COMMISSION "China will give fair treatment to foreign investors participating in the Made in China 2025 project, and those who are bidding for technology businesses and government purchasing programs. In 2018, China will expand the use of negative lists for foreign investors nationwide in the free trade zones."

Commission Chairman He Lifeng said China will step up investment in the real economy and private enterprises.

HE LIFENG, CHAIRMAN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REFORM COMMISSION "We expect more balanced investments this year, and higher investments going into the real economy. We also encourage private investments. Overall, investment will bring one third of the economic output.On trade, as long as the global economy continues to recover, China's trade growth will continue to be stable, contributing 8 percent to 9 percent GDP."

Lifeng also talked about the new economic zone to the south of Beijing. He said the Xiongan New Area welcomes international involvement.

HE LIFENG, CHAIRMAN NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REFORM COMMISSION "We welcome international cooperation in the Xiongan New Area that can help in the project to move non-capital functions out of Beijing and ensure high quality development."