China’s Politburo warns of economic risks as Communist Party readies for third plenum

“The complexity, severity and uncertainty of the external environment have spiked,” it said, according to a statement released by state news agency Xinhua. The session, also known as a plenum, traditionally sets economic strategy for the next five to 10 years and is often seen as the most important of the seven party gatherings held … Read more

China finds foreign support for Xinjiang policies as region seeks to boost economic ties

The event coincided with Eid ul-Fitr, the Muslim festival that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. Xinjiang is home to 25.85 million people, 14.93 million of whom are members of ethnic minority groups, including the Muslim Uygurs and Kazakhs. EU sees 200% surge in Xinjiang imports despite human rights concerns Beijing has … Read more

China revamps discipline inspection rules to ensure Xi Jinping’s instructions are carried out

A newly added paragraph at the beginning of the document states that the inspection work’s “fundamental task is to resolutely safeguard the core status” of Xi, as well as his authority and leadership. Another new section explains that the party’s inspection team shall, as its top priority, check on the implementation of “major decisions and … Read more

With China’s economic plenum still unscheduled, observers worry politics remain in command

Top priorities will include party discipline and cohesion, according to a statement issued after the meeting, though “high-quality development” was also emphasised. National security and upholding unity under the party and central government’s leadership remain the most crucial goals, while other matters such as youth employment and economic rejuvenation seem to rank lower, observers and … Read more

China’s Xi Jinping pushes ‘disruptive innovation’ at first Politburo study session of the year

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for efforts to boost “disruptive innovation”, integrate technology with industry, and increase supply chain resilience as he presided over this year’s first Politburo study session. At the meeting of the Communist Party’s top policymaking body on Wednesday, Xi said China must strengthen scientific and technological innovation – especially “original and … Read more

Chinese leaders hint at increased focus on politics and Communist Party discipline for coming year

The central government may still unveil more forceful stimulus packages later at the annual “two sessions”, when the national legislature and top political advisory body meet, but it is unlikely Beijing will make economic growth the only priority. But, in a break with precedent, Wednesday’s meeting concluded with no reference to the third plenum, an … Read more

China’s cadres urged to connect with the masses as part of education campaign, but some question its methods

To mark the anniversary of the practice, Xi’s teachings have been promoted as part of an education campaign for cadres. In late December, hundreds of officials gathered in Beijing to attend a forum chaired by Politburo member Li Ganjie, with similar events held around the country. However, while cadres are studying and imitating Xi’s ideas … Read more

Xi Jinping calls legal backing on foreign affairs an ‘urgent task’ for China

President Xi Jinping has called for stronger legal backing in areas related to foreign affairs so that China can better manage its opening up and mitigate risks. Xi described this as an “urgent task for advancing high-level openness to the outside world and addressing external risks and challenges”, state news agency Xinhua reported on Tuesday. … Read more

Xi Jinping showcases policy priorities on first trip to Shanghai since 2020, as Chinese leader promotes his agenda

Chinese President Xi Jinping is making his first visit to Shanghai since 2020, state media reported on Wednesday, on a trip that highlights some key aspects of his policy agenda in areas such as finance, technology and welfare. On Monday, the Post was the first to report that Xi would be visiting the city this … Read more