Side-by-side comparison finds Li Qiang and predecessor Li Keqiang had different priorities early in their terms determined by economy at home during their era and geopolitics abroad.
As China prepares for its annual legislative sessions, the methods used last year to prop up economic growth appear less reliable than before, prompting calls for a large-scale re-evaluation of policies and prospects.
Analysts expect growth in defence spending to remain ‘moderate’ in 2024, in line with the last eight years.
Annual political meetings are a platform for Beijing to broadcast foreign policy positions, but analysts expect neutral stance on US presidential race as a Biden-Trump rematch between would offer little relief for bilateral relations.
This year’s top political advisory body meets amid lingering questions over key posts and concerns about top-level vetting.
Many had predicted China to surpass the US in terms of GDP by the middle of this century, but recent trends suggest such a swap may be farther off – if it even happens at all.
The current debate in China centres around the question of whether it needs to close a significant gap with the West in terms of development.
