The expected confirmation of Xi protégé Li Qiang as the country’s new premier could be the most watched moment of the legislative session.
Next month’s annual meeting of the National People’s Congress will be closely watched for clues on who will oversee Hong Kong and Macau affairs.
Li Qiang’s expected elevation to premier would make him the first such Chinese leader in three decades to have no experience in the central government or in west China, but he does have President Xi Jinping’s confidence.
After the Chinese government abruptly pivoted from its hardline coronavirus rules at the end of last year, attention has shifted to how Beijing plans to restore business confidence and spur recovery amid global uncertainties.
Observers say Beijing’s ties with its many neighbours will be one area to focus on as Foreign Minister Qin Gang sets out China’s diplomatic priorities at this month’s “two sessions”.
Leading diplomats Wang Yi and Qin Gang’s efforts to set the foreign policy stage have been hampered by balloon saga and Ukraine war.
