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VOL. XXIX No. 3 March 2017 Rs. 20.00 2

Ambassador Luo Zhaohui and his wife Dr. Jiang Yili met Ambassador Luo Zhaohui and his wife Dr. Jiang Yili met with His Excellency Ram Nath Kovind, Governor of Bihar. with the Honourable Mamata Benerjee, Chief Minister of West Bengal.

Ambassador Luo Zhaohui and his wife Dr. Jiang Yili met Ambassador Luo Zhaohui met with Mr. Suresh Prabhu, with Ms. Nirupama Rao and her husband, former Foreign Railway Minister of India. Secretary and Ambassador to China of India.

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The fifth session of the 12th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), opened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2017. The 12th National People’s Congress (NPC), China’s top legislature, opened its fifth session at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 5, 2017.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang delivered Government Work Report during the opening meeting of the fifth session of China’s 12th National People’s Congress (NPC) in Beijing, capital of China, March 5, 2017.

4 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

Zhang Dejiang, chairman of the Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC), delivered a work report of the NPC Standing Committee during the second plenary meeting of the fifth session of the 12th NPC at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 8, 2017.

Yu Zhengsheng, chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), delivered a report on the work of the CPPCC National Committee’s Standing Committee at the fifth session of the 12th CPPCC National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2017.

News From China l March 2017 5 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 TRANSCRIPT OF PREMIER LI KEQIANG’S MEETING WITH THE PRESS AT THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE 12TH NATIONAL PEOPLE’S CONGRESS

Premier Li Keqiang: The year. Since we only have limited China talk of the highest level may moderator told me that some of the time, I suggest we get the questions take place as early as next month. We journalists came to the Great Hall started right away. have a good idea of what the US of the People for this press wants from China, but what does conference as early as two to three CNN: President Trump has China want from the US? What is hours in advance. This shows how been consistently critical of China, China’s bottom line for a healthy, hard you work and how committed claiming that it’s stealing US jobs, sustainable Sino-US relationship? you are to this profession. I want to manipulating its currency and not Are you confident that you can thank you for your efforts in doing enough for regional security. achieve that or will it be a difficult covering the “Two Sessions” this Now we are hearing that the US- process?

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Premier Li: Your question understanding. Foreign relations sides. I understand the whole world reminds me of my trip to New York departments of our countries are is paying close attention to China-US last September for the UN General now engaged in discussions on a relations. China hopes that no matter Assembly meeting and other high- face-to-face meeting between the what bumps this relationship may level events. I was asked a question two presidents. This relationship is run into, it will continue to move about China-US ties following a crucial not just for the interests of forward in a positive direction. Both speech at the New York Economic our countries, but also for regional our peoples are great people and we Club. It was a time when the US and global peace, security and believe that we have the wisdom to presidential campaign was turning stability. We must work together to properly manage differences. There white-hot. I was asked whether there take it forward continuously. is the need and capacity on both will be significant change in China- sides to expand common interests. US ties when a new president is As for China-US trade, I want to elected. My reply was that China-US share with you what an NPC deputy China National Radio: relations have been going forward in from a foreign trade company told China’s economic growth has been spite of twists and turns in the past me during this year’s Two Sessions. declining in recent years and we have decades. So I am optimistic about He said that although China runs a seen that the projected target of the future of this relationship no surplus in trade with the US, for his GDP growth in 2017 has been matter who gets elected. President company, over 90% of the profits trimmed to about 6.5%. Will this Trump has since been elected, and goes to US firms, and the profit adversely affect the global economy? President Xi Jinping has talked with margin of his business is a mere 2 to Some people say that China’s him over the phone. The two 3 percent. Statistics show that last economy still faces a lot of risks, presidents agreed to work together year, trade and mutual investment especially in the financial sector. Do for further progress in China-US between the two countries created you think that China’s economy will relations. President Trump and up to one million jobs in the United remain an engine driving global senior officials from the new US States. We may have different economy when global economic administration have explicitly statistical methods, but I believe growth remains sluggish? reaffirmed continued US adherence whatever differences we may have, to the one-China policy, which we can always sit down and talk Premier Li: I read some foreign forms the political foundation of about them, and work together to media commentary describing the China-US relations. This foundation find solutions. And for those projected GDP growth target of has remained firm and unshaken differences that cannot be resolved about 6.5% this year as moderate despite changing circumstances, and for the time being, they can be downward adjustment. In fact, 6.5% it would always remain so in the shelved and we may continue to growth is not a low speed and it future. With the right political focus on expanding common would not be easy to meet this target. foundation in place, China-US interests, which I believe is the wise I can’t help but recall a martial art cooperation enjoys bright prospects. choice. And as we do so, the performance I saw at Shaolin differences will account for a lesser Temple, during which a child monk We feel optimistic about the and lesser proportion in overall can do over a dozen somersaults at future of China-US relations on the China-US relations. one go quite easily, but several such strength of the extensive common consecutive somersaults for an adult interests that have bound the two I also want to cite a recent article m o n k wo u l d b e q u i t e a n countries together in the course of written by a well-re p uted accomplishment due to their several decades of our diplomatic international think-tank. It says that different size. 6.5% of GDP growth relations. It is true that there are should a trade war break out in 2017, if achieved, would generate some differences between the two between China and the United more additional economic output countries over issues like jobs, States, it would be the foreign- than last year, as this is a growth exchange rate and security. What’s invested companies in China, attained on the basis of RMB 74 important for both countries is to particularly US firms that would bear trillion yuan, or US$11 trillion in stay focused on the overall interests, the brunt of it. We don’t want to see GDP. And this growth is projected and enhance dialogue and a trade war. A trade war won’t make to generate over 11 million new communication to deepen mutual our trade fairer. It will only hurt both urban jobs. The measures we take are

News From China l March 2017 7 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

consistent with the laws of generally secure and we do not opening its economy fast enough. economics, and moreover, slower foresee systemic risks. We still have a Can you say what steps you are growth can help us better focus on good reserve of policy options and taking in the next year to convince enhancing the quality and instruments at our disposal. Our the rest of the world that China is performance of China’s economy. I deficit to GDP ratio is below 3%. committed to free trade and an open don’t think China’s contribution to The capital adequacy ratio of economy? global growth will come down. We commercial banks in China is 13% believe China’s economy will and their provision coverage ratio is P r e m i e r L i : A l t h o u g h continue to be a strong driving force 176%, both above the international globalization has encountered some in the face of sluggish world standards for financial security. As bumps in the road, China has economic recovery. the express train of China’s consistently upheld economic economy continues to roll along at globalization and free trade. I believe With respect to risks, we are medium-high speed, we need to such a position in itself is a good seeing growing uncertainties in the fasten our seat belt and ward off indication of China’s commitment international economic and political acute outbreaks of risks. Still less will to opening-up. It is fair to say that landscape. These are the risks on the we allow regional or systemic risks to economic globalization has external front. As for China, stalled break out. benefited countries across the world. development presents the biggest Some problems may have occurred risk. So it is essential that we Bloomberg: As the United in this process, for example, with maintain steady, medium-high States pulls back from its roles in respect to distribution of benefits. growth and that, in itself, is China’s global trade deals, such as the TPP, But we don’t think they are the result contribution to global stability. We China seems poised to take the of globalization per se but more of take very seriously the risks we face leadership role. You and President an issue of how one responds to it. on the domestic front, including the Xi have become advocates of free China is ready to work with other financial sector. We will take prompt t r a d e, o p e n e c o n o my a n d countries to further improve the and targeted measures to prevent globalization. At the same time, global governance system. We also them from spreading. I should point China has come under criticism for believe that economic globalization out that China’s financial system is unfair trade practices and not has been deeply embedded in the

8 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 global trend of peace, development development opportunities. be accomplished overnight. You are and cooperation. A closed-door right that my government’s target for policy or beggar-thy-neighbor As for liberalization of global cutting the number of government approach leads to no solutions. trade, we believe all countries need review items has already been met. to work together to push it forward. But in this process, we have Like many countries in the The world belongs to us all and we all encountered a variety of issues world, China has benefited from need to do our part to make things unexpectedly. In addition to economic globalization as it has better. We are open-minded toward government review and approval been opening up ever wider to the the various regional trading items, there are all sorts of outside world. China needs to first arrangements, established or procedures requiring administrative run its own things well. But the truth proposed, and welcome progress in p e r m i t s , c e r t i f i c a t i o n o f is, this cannot be done with our them. When they concern China and qualifications, and payment of all doors shut. Hence we will only where conditions are in place, we kinds of administrative fees. All pursue greater openness. Naturally would follow an open-minded these will be subject to reform. The opening-up is a gradual process. The approach and we would be ready to reform will help the government important thing is that we have kept work with others to push them focus on performing its due role moving forward for the past forward. But China has no intention more effectively and prevent decades. to reach beyond its role or get government from overreaching involved where we shouldn’t. China itself, which has tied down our Last year, China was still the will participate in and support all businesses and hurt government largest recipient of FDI among initiatives that will promote the efficiency and credibility. It is a self- developing countries and FDI liberalization of global trade. We the imposed reform involving sacrifices reached US$126 billion. In the Chinese understand that the on the part of the government. I World Bank’s ease of doing business opportunities of economic have all along called for boldness of ranking, China moved up 18 spots in globalization must be seized through spirit and decisiveness in action in 2016 compared with where it was in opening-up. They should not be pushing forward this reform. We will 2013. We have launched 11 pilot free missed no matter what challenges we not relent until the job is done, no trade zones starting from Shanghai, may face. matter what obstacles or resistance and good experience gained from may lie ahead. We should draw them will be applied across the People’s Daily: Mr. Premier, confidence from our ample strength country. This year we will hold the over the past four years, you have and resilience. Belt and Road For um for been highly focused on the reform International Cooperation and more to streamline administration and Streamlining administration, steps for opening-up will be delegate government powers. enhancing oversight where introduced. We have proposed to According to this year’s government appropriate and improving many countries the building of free work report, the target of cutting the government services: these three trade zones or the negotiating of items which require the approval of tasks reflect our holistic approach. investment and trade agreements. the State Council and State Council Streamlining administration frees up These will all contribute to two-way ministries by one third before the government energy to improve opening-up. end of this government’s term has compliance oversight and provide been fulfilled ahead of schedule. So better services. By widening market One thing I should point out is what about the remaining two access, we can level the playing field that when one opens itself wider and thirds? Will the reform be pushed for all market entities. At the same at a higher level, there will be more through, and if so, what specific time, we must seriously deal with any frictions, but we are confident that steps will be taken? violation of laws and regulations, their proportion to overall economic such as making and selling fake or links will only get smaller. So China Premier Li: The central goal of substandard goods, cheating at the will open at a higher level and remain the reform is to transform marketplace, violating intellectual a p o p u l a r d e s t i n a t i o n f o r government functions and balance property rights, as well as issues of investment. We welcome other relations between the government great concern to the general public partners to share in China’s and the market. This reform cannot such as food and drug safety and the

News From China l March 2017 9 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 envi ro n m en t. Besi d es, th e recently the situation on the Korean employment. The goal is to achieve government will leverage the Peninsula and in Northeast Asia fairly sufficient employment and Internet to make public services more generally has become tense. keep unemployment at a low level. more accessible to the people. The Tensions may lead to conflict, which government will also focus more on would harm all parties involved. We In the past several years, record poverty alleviation, development of hope that all the parties concerned numbers of job-seekers have inner cities, providing compulsory will work together to de-escalate the entered the labor force, which is a big education, meeting basic health care situation, get issues back on the track challenge for us. This year, we are needs and all other areas that of dialogue and try to find lasting going to have 7.95 million college concern people’s livelihood. solutions. It’s common sense that no graduates, the highest number in one wants to see turbulence at his history. Five million will graduate In a nutshell, the government doorstep. from vocational schools. And several should send a resounding message hundred thousand workers will be of “yes” to law-abiding market CCTV: You often say that laid off in the process of cutting entities, give the green light to hard- employment is the foundation of overcapacity. working entrepreneurs and people’s livelihood. And of all the innovators, and show a yellow card economic indicators, it is the The government’s job is not to or even a red card to violators of statistics concerning jobs that you hand out the “iron rice bowl” or laws and regulations. care the most about. In the permanent jobs to the people, but to government work report, you create enabling conditions for the Nikkei: US Secretary of State pointed out that this year, the people to use their own ingenuity Tillerson is visiting Japan starting government may face a more and hard work to create or secure from today and then he is coming to daunting task of providing “gold rice bowls” so to speak. The China and the ROK. People believe employment. My question is, do you employment rate in the past years that one of the key topics for expect large scale unemployment in has been fairly high because we have discussion is the Korean Peninsula particular sectors this year? leveraged the enthusiasm for issue. We have seen that recently the entrepreneurial and innovation DPRK has once again test-fired Premier Li: If you read the activities. I would encourage the missiles and has been pushing government work report carefully, media, in particular foreign media, to forward its nuclear weapons you will notice that we have adjusted report the fact that Chinese jobs are program. All these have heightened a target upward among all the major mainly created by the Chinese tensions in Northeast Asia. I would economic and social development themselves. like to ask what steps will China take targets for 2017, namely we will to help ease the situation, and how create over 11 million new urban The Chinese government has will China work with Japan and other jobs, one million more on top of the the ability to support more job countries concerned to resolve the target we set for 2016. The fact is, we creation. There will not be, nor will Korean Peninsula nuclear issue? have projected around 6.5% GDP we allow mass unemployment. For growth mainly to support job those who have difficulty getting Premier: China is committed to creation. Employment is of jobs or making ends meet, the the denuclearization of the Korean paramount importance for such a government will do its part and Peninsula, to peace and stability large country as China with 1.3 provide for their basic needs. there and to resolving issues through billion-plus people. Employment is dialogue. That has been China’s the foundation of economic Lianhe Zaobao: Mr. Premier, consistent and clear-cut position. development. It creates wealth and is this year is the last year in the term of With respect to UN Security Council a major source of household this government. My question is, resolutions, China has all along made income. Over the past four years, we what has been the most important clear its commitment to and fully h ave p u r s u e d a p r o a c t ive achievement of the past four years? complied with these resolutions. employment policy and created over And what has been the greatest China is also a staunch supporter of 13 million new urban jobs every year challenge? the international nuclear non- for four years in a roll. This year, we proliferation regime. It is true that will continue to give high priority to Premier Li: It’s a short but big

10 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 question. The most important power, the government must not But some people may see these achievement of the past four years is overreach, and the room for rent- developments in a different way. Mr. that under the leadership of the CPC seeking must be squeezed. This is Premier, do you think this public Central Committee with Comrade easier said than done. We must make enthusiasm for entrepreneurship Xi Jinping at its core and with the sure that all levels of the government and innovation will continue? joint efforts of our people, we have move in lockstep to travel the last developed new approaches to mile and get rid of any remaining Premier Li: We believe that our macroeconomic management and obstacles. initiative of mass entrepreneurship maintained steady economic and innovation is a response to the performance within the proper During an inspection trip, I was call of this age of economic parameters and a medium-high shown that, instead of requiring a globalization and Internet Plus. The growth rate. The variation in annual stamp of approval from 108 government’s further reform of growth rate, for example, is only government departments, the streamlining administration and about one percentage point. We have streamlined process required only delegating powers is also designed to achieved such steady growth not by one. With China being so big, there boost this public enthusiasm for resorting to massive, economy-wide may be similar situations of business start-ups and innovation. stimulus, but by industrial and excessive requirements for Over the past three years and more, consumption upgrading, which has government approval elsewhere. on an average daily basis, more than contributed to the improvement of You may remember that a few years 40,000 market entities have got China’s economic structure. We have ago, a delegate at the Two Sessions registered, adding up to 10 million encouraged the new drivers of produced a so-called Long-March every year. When I share this figure economic growth to take the place matrix, showing all the intricate with foreign leaders, they were truly of traditional ones. Most procedures for administrative amazed as this is equivalent to the importantly, we have generated as approval. Although things have been total number of SMEs in their many as 50 million new urban jobs. streamlined significantly and the countries. Not only SMEs are doing long march has been substantially entrepreneurial and innovation Over the years, some people reduced, it’s still too much. Let me activities. Big companies are actively have predicted, once and again, that repeat that no matter what obstacle engaged in this too. They have the Chinese economy will see a may lie ahead, we are determined to opened up vast online makerspaces “hard landing”. The truth is, we push the reform through. The goal is to enable a matching between the managed a medium-high growth to unleash and grow productive innovative capabilities of their rate last year in spite of the fact that forces, bring out the initiative of the employees with the demands of world economic and trade growth people, and deliver greater benefits customers in the marketplace. This hit a seven-year low. I hope this will to the general public. After all, initiative r uns through the put an end to any more predictions governance is all about letting go of development of primary, secondary of a hard landing. The Chinese narrow departmental interests for and tertiary industries and involves economy will continue to enjoy the greater good and always businesses of all sizes. So I believe it medium-high growth and move to a responding to the people’s call. will continue to thrive. medium-high level. Shenzhen News: Mr. Premier, This initiative has generated a At the same time, we also face last October, you attended the great deal of jobs. It is also an many challenges and difficulties, N a t i o n a l We e k o f M a s s important means to implement the hence the need for continuous Entrepreneurship and Innovation in strategy of innovation-driven reform. This is the biggest challenge Shenzhen. It is estimated that as development. This initiative is a for us. The reform to streamline many as 500,000 people participated process of reform too because it administration, enhance oversight in the national week’s activities, captures the most important and provide better services is bound making it a very popular event. Over element in productive forces, that is, to upset vested interests; it also the past year, this initiative of mass human resources. It helps bring out demands a fundamental change in entrepreneurship and innovation the wisdom and motivation of each our mindset. There should be no has caught on, and the sharing individual and gives them an more arbitrary use of government economy has seen rapid expansion. opportunity for a fair shot at success

News From China l March 2017 11 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 and upward mobility. It has also to move in the right direction. diversify investment channels for boosted the development of many Hong Kong residents, and new production and business Phoenix TV: This year’s contribute to Hong Kong’s lasting models, like the “Internet Plus” and government work report, for the prosperity and stability. sharing economy. Some of the new first time, contains a reference to the business models appear in the n o t i o n o f “ H o n g K o n g TASS of Russia: Mr. Premier, synergy between old and new independence”, pointing out that how do you evaluate overall China- growth drivers. Others are the result Hong Kong independence will lead Russia relations? Do you think that of traditional drivers of growth nowhere. I wonder if this indicates a the economic relations between the being given renewed life with the change in the policy of the central two countries will enjoy further application of new technologies. government. Does it mean that the growth in the face of uncertainties in This initiative has, in a nutshell, c e n t r a l g o v e r n m e n t , i n the international economic responded well to market demand implementing the principle of “one landscape and volatility of global and individualistic needs of our country, two systems”, will put more energy prices? customers. emphasis on the part of “one country” and downplay the part of Premier Li: China and Russia The growing new business “two systems”? Does it mean that are each other’s biggest neighbors. models have also created pressure the central government will reduce We enjoy a comprehensive strategic on the government to enhance its its support to Hong Kong? partnership of coordination. Sound capability, because after all, many of and steady growth of China-Russia the forms of business are new Premier Li: The principle of relations is good for the region and things. When it comes to such new “one country, two systems” needs to good for the world. Last year, things, it’s only normal for people to be understood and implemented in presidents of the two countries met have different views. For the its entirety. As I have also said in the several times and reached important government, it needs to exercise government work report, this agreement on many issues. And the careful regulation in an open- principle needs to be steadfastly prime ministers’ annual meeting has minded and accommodating way to applied without being bent or been held as scheduled every year for promote their healthy development. distorted. The central government many years. I believe all this is will continue to enhance its support evidence of the stability of China- I have all along believed that to Hong Kong’s development and Russia relations. China’s nearly 800 million labor will introduce more measures in the force, including the 170 million who i n t e r e s t o f H o n g K o n g ’s Talking about economic have received higher education or development and its cooperation relations and trade between our two possess high professional skills, with the mainland. Last year, we countries, over the years, we have represents a tremendous source of launched the Shenzhen-Hong Kong faced sluggish global economic wealth and energy and enormous Stock Connect. This year, we will recovery and anemic growth of opportunities for China itself and actively explore greater cooperation global trade. So naturally our the international market too. The over the bond markets. That is what economic relations and trade have Chinese people are intelligent and the country needs, and Hong Kong been affected by the decline in hard-working and they have an has a platform for it too. We are international energy prices and some inexhaustible drive for pursuing a considering establishing a bond other factors. I recall that last year, better life. The government needs to market connect between the on the same occasion, I expressed create an enabling environment for mainland and Hong Kong this year, the hope for our business relations our people to stay enthusiastic for allowing for the first time overseas to turn the corner and achieve strong entrepreneurship and innovation. capital to buy mainland’s bonds growth by the end of the year. Some people and some enterprises overseas. Hong Kong stands to be Thanks to our joint efforts, this has may experience difficulties as this the first to benefit from such been achieved. In the first two initiative unfolds, which is only arrangement thanks to its unique months of this year, there was normal for the development of new strengths. We believe this will help actually a big surge in China-Russia things. But we have the confidence maintain Hong Kong’s status as an trade. This shows the tremendous to ensure that our initiative continue international financial center, untapped potential of our trade ties

12 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 and the great complementarity of global monetary system. The central government has our economies. I am confident that earmarked 100 billion yuan in a the goals we set for our two-way China still has the largest foreign special fund to provide assistance to trade can be achieved. exchange reserves among all them and asked local governments countries in the world. As to what is to set up matching funds. Last year, Caixin: China’s RMB exchange the right size for our foreign proper arrangements were made for rate has been under pressure of exchange reserves, I believe that will 720,000 workers who were laid off depreciation. To keep exchange rate continue to be up for exploration. as a result of cutting overcapacity. stable, one has to either dig into All in all, China has ample foreign For various reasons, there are still foreign exchange reserves or tighten exchange reserves for meeting workers yet to find new jobs. In control on the use of foreign relevant needs, like paying for some cases, given the strong currencies. Among the three imports or paying off its short-term attachment between the workers and scenarios of a weaker currency, drop external debts. And China’s foreign their employers, some may prefer to in foreign exchange reserves and exchange reserves are way above the stay on a bit longer with their former tightened currency control, how international standard. employers. Still, their essential living would you weigh the costs of each needs are provided for. scenario and what choice will you As for our recent authenticity make? and compliance review of the use of This year, effort to cut foreign currency, that has been a overcapacity will be extended to the Premier Li: First, on the legal provision for a long time, not coal-fired power generation sector. exchange rate. Last year, there has something new. I want to emphasize Factoring in the number carried over been some volatility on international that the need of our businesses for from last year, we need to provide currency markets. Many currencies normal use of foreign currency and assistance to nearly one million especially major global currencies that of individuals to study or travel people in total. The key is to have depreciated against the overseas is assured. The RMB has continue to generate new jobs, strengthening US dollar. The solid weight in the international including through our efforts to depreciation of the Chinese yuan monetary system and the RMB foster new drivers of growth. As I against the dollar is a quite modest exchange rate will remain generally said before, the initiative of mass one. China has no intention to stable. entrepreneurship and innovation devalue its currency in order to has both created a lot of new jobs boost exports, because that is not Reuters: This year, the Chinese and stimulated job creation in g o o d f o r o u r c o m p a n i e s ’ government will further reduce traditional sectors, which has helped transformation and upgrading. ineffective supply and expand to revive these industries. China has no intention to fight any effective supply. While doing that, trade war either, as that is not good the government needs to ensure that We will not relent our efforts for the stability of global trade and laid-off workers will be re-employed and will continue to put to effective the international monetary system. and their basic living needs will be use the central government special China will continue to push forward met. If I were a miner or a worker of fund complemented by funding the market-oriented reform of its a steel plant, what kind of new jobs from local governments. At the same exchange rate regime, and follow a can I expect to get in my province? time, businesses also need to fulfill market-based, managed floating In what sectors do you expect an their social responsibilities. So if you exchange rate regime. As the floating increase in job opportunities? were a coal miner, your mine is going band of the Chinese yuan widens, Premier Li: You have given the to be closed or its production the RMB exchange rate has employment issue a human face. suspended, and you are capable of remained broadly stable at an Last year, we took vigorous efforts flexible employment, I will advise adaptive and equilibrium level. That to cut excessive and outdated you to find a job in sectors with new is attributable to the sound capacity in steel and coal sectors as a drivers of growth or move to new economic fundamentals in China. priority task for supply-side jobs generated in the upgraded By keeping the RMB exchange rate structural reform. A key concern for traditional industries. Moreover, broadly stable, China will continue us in this process is the proper Chinese companies, whose to contribute to the stability of resettlement of laid-off workers. corporate culture encourages close

News From China l March 2017 13 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 employer-employee relationships, speed up their study on relevant laws that peace and stability in the South will continue to provide subsidies to and come up with a proposal. China Sea could be maintained, their loyal employees for some time specific disputes be resolved to give them a leg-up. M a n a g e r D a i l y o f through dialogue by the parties T h a i l a n d : T h e O b a m a directly concerned and all countries All in all, easing the transition a d m i n i s t r a t i o n a d o p t e d a in the region work together for for laid-off workers will remain our rebalancing policy towards the peace, stability and development. top concern in cutting overcapacity Asia-Pacific region while the and pursuing the supply-side Trump administration is yet to For years, China and the United structural reform. spell out its policy in Asia. States have been cooperating in Thailand and other countries in many areas in the Asia-Pacific ThePaper.cn: In the run-up to Southeast Asia hope this region region. Many US multinationals this year’s two Sessions, the Chinese maintains peace and stability. We place their Asia-Pacific headquarters government’s portal website, don’t want to see any conflict in China. We hope that the areas of together with 27 online media between China and the US here, cooperation between the two outlets, conducted an online survey even more reluctant to take sides. countries will continue to widen, on the theme of “What I wish to say How do you view China’s present providing more opportunities for to the Premier” to solicit public role in the Asia-Pacific region? ASEAN countries instead of being a comments and suggestions for the What is China’s ideal order and cause of concern for them. government. Viewers were further role for the region? How can requested by ThePaper.cn and China and the US live in peace in Xinhua News Agency: We’ve Toutiao.com to vote on entries on this region? discovered that there is growing people’s daily lives. The question of complaint on the part of businesses “what will happen to my home when Premier Li: The Asia-Pacific is about the heavy burden of taxes and the 70-year term of land use right the common home for all countries fees. They say that even with hard expires”, has received the most in this region. China does not want work, they couldn’t make much votes, or 21.31 million in total. My to see any party feeling compelled to money. And we’ve also heard question is, what will the choose sides under the influence of c o m p l a i n t s f r o m C h i n e s e government do to address this the Cold-War mentality. We believe consumers that some high-end public concern? regional affairs should be handled on goods are not yet domestically made. the merits of each case and in a way What is your response to their Premier Li: Our ancestors that is conducive to continued peace complaints, Mr. Premier? And what believe that one shall have his peace and stability. As for ASEAN, we steps will the government take to of mind when he possesses a piece always put ASEAN in a priority resolve the issue? of land. So it’s understandable for position in China’s neighborhood internet users and other members of diplomacy, and support ASEAN Premier Li: I devoted a the general public to feel concerned community building and its significant por tion of my about the expiry of the 70-year term centrality in regional cooperation. government work report on further land use right of their residences. China hopes to see an Asia-Pacific cutting taxes and fees, particularly The State Council had asked the that enjoys order and stability, that is t h e m y r i a d o f e x c e s s i v e relevant departments to respond to able to build consensus through administrative fees that are exacting these concerns. Specifically, the term consultation and properly manage a heavy burden on businesses. These can be renewed, and no application differences, and has the wisdom to fees are used to cover certain or pre-set conditions needs to be resolve disputes. expenses, such as keeping up some filed or met. And the expiry will not payrolls. To cut down fees, the affect any transactions over the China and ASEAN have been government must tighten its belt. I property. Some people may wonder pushing forward the consultation on have made it clear that the central whether there will be legal a code of conduct in the South government will take the lead in safeguards for this right. I want to China Sea. Substantive progress has doing so and cut its general tell you that the State Council has been made in this regard and we will expenditures by no less than 5% this entrusted relevant departments to keep working on that. It is our hope year. And in my discussions with

14 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 officials from local governments, United Daily News of policies toward Taiwan businesses. I they all agreed that this is what they Taiwan: Over the past year, wish to reiterate here that such also need to do. So we will use this relations across the Taiwan Straits policies will be maintained to enable painful adjustment on the part of have become complex and grave Taiwan businesses and people to the government to make things with an uncertain future. Under such share in China’s development easier for businesses to enhance circumstances, what will the opportunities with their compatriots their competitiveness. Furthermore, mainland do to uphold peaceful on the mainland. After all, we are one we will take steps this year to cut development of cross-Straits family. broadband, electricity and logistics relations and safeguard the well- costs. Our goal is to bring down being of people on both sides? Radio France: The European taxes and fees by up to one trillion Union is China’s second largest RMB yuan. A most fundamental Premier Li: People on the two commercial partner with a trade measure is to reduce government- sides of the Taiwan Straits are deficit of 137 billion euros in favor imposed transaction cost. brothers and sisters. Blood is thicker of China and a large number of than water. No matter how the European businesses complain As for the complaints of some situation on Taiwan may evolve, it about that. What is China proposing Chinese consumers about the quality cannot sever the fraternal bond to improve market access condition of domestically made goods, I between the two sides, or change the for European businesses? And what believe this is an important message history or the reality that both sides about better reciprocity of foreign to all Chinese businesses to enhance of the Taiwan Straits belong to one investments? quality control. It is also an and the same China. Nor will it important part of the supply-side weaken our resolve and sincerity for Premier Li: You rightly structural reform. We’ve launched peaceful growth of cross-Straits referred to the trade deficit figure as the Made in China 2025 strategy, relations. EU statistics. The fact of the matter which aims to raise the quality of is, China never goes after trade Chinese products and equipment. Our policy towards Taiwan has surpluses. What we want is balanced Some people question if that means been consistent and clear-cut, that is, trade, as unbalanced trade would not China will reduce import and retreat we will stick to the political be sustainable. Talking about profits, in its opening-up. That is a foundation of the 1992 consensus, I think European companies have misunderstanding. On the contrary, which embodies the one-China not just earned profits in China, but raising our own products’ quality principle, firmly oppose Taiwan have also taken the lion’s share of and upgrading our own industries to independence, uphold peace across such profits, as they are at the higher a medium-high level would actually the Taiwan Straits and peaceful end of the industrial chain. If the require us to open even wider to the development of cross-Straits EU could ease its restrictions on outside world and introduce more relations and improve the well-being high-tech exports to China, I believe advanced technologies and of people on both sides. that would make a big difference in products. In this process, we will see our trade balance. to it that intellectual property rights The peaceful growth of cross- will be well protected for the benefit Straits relations has brought new China has proposed to the EU of their proprietors. As for those opportunities for people on both to p ush f o rwa rd th e BI T high-end products which cannot be sides. According to current statistics, negotiations. We hope to receive a manufactured locally for the time people on Taiwan make 5 million positive response. A high-standard being, we may consider lowering visits across the Straits every year. BIT will help two-way opening-up tariffs to boost import. In a word, we We will introduce more policies to between the two sides. And pending need to give our consumers more provide more convenience for that, we will continue to widen options and more benefits, and most people in Taiwan to work and live on market access for European importantly, harden the resolve of the mainland as family. We welcome businesses and ensure that Chinese companies to win over investment from Taiwan businesses. European-invested companies consumers with their commitment I recall that at last year’s press registered in China receive the same to high quality and workermanship. conference, I was asked whether the treatment as domestic Chinese mainland will keep preferential enterprises. With respect to trade

News From China l March 2017 15 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 frictions between the two sides, we that the smog is a huge irritant in But one thing I can tell you is that we have gained good experience in people’s lives. Like air, blue skies will set up a special fund to bring in properly addressing them. treat everyone equally. We all want to the best scientists to dig into this see more blue-sky days. In the course matter regardless of cost and Here I want to emphasize that of development, China is uncover the unknown factors to China has all along supported a c o n f r o n t e d w i t h s e v e r e make our campaign against smog united, prosperous and stable environmental challenges, smog in more effective. European Union, a strong euro, and particular. In my government work the European integration process. report, I laid out five key measures We may not be able to control We believe that is good for economic for smog control and we will push the weather, but we can adjust our globalization, for a multipolar world t h e m t h r o u g h w i t h f u l l b eh avio r a n d o ur way o f and for diversity of civilizations. We determination to fight and win the development. I feel the same way as feel optimistic about the future of battle on smog. But to be honest you all do. Smog must be put under the EU and the future of China-EU with you, that will take time. control and blue skies should no relations. longer be a luxury, nor will it be. The main targets for smog Beijing News: In recent years, control would be to tackle coal- China Consumer News: smog has caused great public burning, vehicle emissions and dust. Today is the Consumers’ Rights Day. concern and severely affected In addition, during this year’s Two Can you say a few words to people’s lives. Yet we also discover Sessions, I was told by a scientist that consumers, Mr. Premier? that whenever a major event is held, apart from these obvious causes, we the smog would disappear and have not yet fully understood how Premier Li: You and I are all people would take pictures of blue smog is formed, which is as consumers, and we all need skies and post them online with important. He said, the smog in protection of our rights. To use much excitement. So I want to ask Northern China during winter is popular Internet language, we you, Mr. Premier, what can you do to unique compared to that in other should give “thumbs-up” to quality make sure that blue skies are no parts of the world. Of course, this is products and “blacklist” those bad longer a luxury? not the proper venue to expand on traders. With joint efforts, we will this subject, and the scientists will enjoy more quality products and a Premier Li: I fully understand have to conduct further research. better life year after year.

FOREIGN MINISTER WANG YI MEETS THE PRESS

On 8 March 2017, the Fifth schedules my press conference for 8 home and abroad. Thank you for a Session of the 12th National March. This gives me an opportunity job well done. Now I’m ready to take People’s Congress held a press to extend festive greetings in person your questions. conference, where Foreign Minister to all the female journalists in this Wang Yi answered questions from room. Indeed, I want to wish all Xinhua News Agency: In May, domestic and foreign media on women happiness and good luck. I China will host the Belt and Road China’s foreign policy and external also want to say a big thank-you to all F o r u m f o r I n t e r n a t i o n a l relations. members of the press. You have Cooperation. Why does China want made an important contribution by to hold the forum at this moment in Wang Yi: Friends of the press, building a bridge between the time and what does China hope to good morning. Every year, the NPC Chinese diplomacy and the public at achieve?

16 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

Wang Yi: In about two months’ The idea came from China, but the more inclusive and equitable. It also time, we’ll hold the Belt and Road benefits will flow to all countries. In represents an important attempt at F o r u m f o r I n t e r n a t i o n a l the over three years since President building a community of shared Cooperation in Beijing. We foresee Xi announced the initiative, the idea future for all humankind. that the heads of state and has caught on and cooperation has government from over 20 countries, flourished. It has become the most We hope the forum will the leaders of over 50 international popular public good and the accomplish three things. First, organizations, over 100 ministerial- international cooperation platform review and build consensus, enhance level officials and around 1,200 with the brightest prospects. The the complementarity of countries’ delegates from different countries Belt and Road Initiative has been so development strategies and set the and regions participating in the successful because it meets the goal of combining their strengths forum. In addition to the Leaders partner countries’ urgent desire for and achieving common prosperity. Roundtable, there will also be a m o r e m u t u a l l y b e n e f i c i a l Second, examine key areas of High-Level Dialogue and six parallel cooperation and follows the open cooperation and identify a number p a n e l d i s c u s s i o n s o n t h e and inclusive principle of planning of major projects concerning c o n n e c t i v i t y o f p o l i c y, together, building together and physical connectivity, trade and infrastructure, trade, finance and b e n e f i t i n g t o g e t h e r. W i t h investment, financial support and people. Beijing will once again be the protectionism and unilateralism on people-to-people exchange. Third, center of global attention; the Belt the rise, the Belt and Road Initiative announce medium- to long-term and Road Initiative will continue to is a common cause where the initiatives, explore the establishment be a hot topic around the world. participating countries roll up their of an effective cooperation sleeves and pitch in together. The mechanism and build a closer and The Belt and Road is China’s initiative will help to rebalance result-oriented network of initiative, but it belongs to the world. economic globalization and make it partnerships.

News From China l March 2017 17 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

NBC: President Trump is a China and the United States have Congress of the CPC, Chinese leader quite like no other. How chosen different systems and diplomats have risen to challenges confident are you that compromises development paths. The Chinese and broken new ground. Under the can be found on the most important people have great confidence in our strong leadership of the CPC challenges that concern both sides? own social system and development Central Committee with Comrade path; we welcome efforts to build a Xi Jinping as the core, we have Wang Yi: Through the intense better United States. In the age of accomplished a great deal and communication and joint efforts of progress and plurality, there is a opened a new chapter in major- b o t h s i d e s, t h e C h i n a - U S compelling reason for China and the country diplomacy with Chinese relationship is transitioning steadily United States to respect each other, characteristics. Let me try to sum it and developing in a positive learn from each other, live together up with three key words. direction. Last month, President Xi peacefully and realize common Jinping and President Trump had a development. The first key word is vision. ve r y i m p o r t a n t t e l e p h o n e Grasping the trend of the times and conversation where they reaffirmed Second, we need to rise above the course of history, General the importance of following the the zero-sum mentality. China and Secretary Xi Jinping has put forward one-China principle and pledged to the United States have a growing set a series of new ideas and new push China-US relations to greater of common interests. The areas thinking. For example, he has called heights from a new starting point. where we need to work together on for building partnerships that The phone call has set the direction far outweigh what divides us. In replace confrontation with dialogue, and paved the way for bilateral many ways, our interests are and alliance with partnership. Then, relations. The two sides are having increasingly intertwined. We should countries can build a new type of fruitful communications on pull our efforts to enlarge our shared international relations underpinned realizing exchanges between our interests rather than building one’s by win-win cooperation. On that Presidents and at other levels and success at the expense of the other, basis, we can build a community of expanding all areas of cooperation. because it’s just not possible. shared future for all humankind. As long as we act on the consensus These new ideas and thinking reject reached between our Presidents, It’s been 38 years since China the old concepts of alliance and follow the principle of no conflict or and the United States normalized confrontation and rise above the old confrontation, mutual respect and diplomatic relations. The Chinese approach of zero-sum games. They win-win cooperation, then there is people often say, “When turning have distinct Chinese characteristics no reason why China and the United thirty, one should be able to stand and major implications for the States cannot become good firm; when reaching forty, one world. They are the guide to action partners. should no longer have any doubts.” for Chinese diplomats in the new era We hope that China and the United and will have far-reaching The importance of the China- States can truly rise above the old i m p l i c a t i o n s f o r h u m a n US relationship, one between two ideas, open up new horizons and development and progress. major countries with global impact, build a more robust and mature is self-evident. Preserving and China-US relationship as it turns The second key word is d e v e l o p i n g t h e C h i n a - U S forty, so that we can put the minds initiative. Chinese diplomats have relationship is in the interest of our of our two peoples and the whole worked creatively to secure and two peoples and the expectation of world at ease. advance our country’s and people’s the international community. The interests. We have established a three joint communique’s have laid a People’s Daily: In the last few global web of partnerships, and solid foundation for China-US years, China’s diplomacy has been provided an enabling environment relations. Looking ahead, it’s very active and dynamic. If you are to use and strategic support for China’s important that we rise above two a few words to sum up China’s development. We have advanced the things. diplomacy since the 18th CPC Belt and Road Initiative and opened Congress, what would they be? a new chapter of openness and win- First, we need to rise above the win cooperation. Putting people at difference of our social systems. Wang Yi: Since the 18th the heart of diplomacy, we have

18 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

improved consular mechanisms and va r i o u s u n c e r t a i n t i e s a n d Wang Yi: Once again, tensions procedures and effectively demonstrate China’s confidence and are rising on the Korean Peninsula. safeguarded the legitimate and firmness of purpose. On the one hand, the DPRK has lawful rights and interests of ignored international opposition and Chinese citizens and businesses Later this year, the CPC will insisted on advancing its nuclear and abroad. hold its 19th National Congress. missile programs in violation of Chinese diplomats will continue to Security Council resolutions. On the T he third key word is forge ahead, guided by the other hand, the US and the ROK are consistency. In the face of instability diplomatic thinking of General conducting military exercises of an and conflicts in many parts of the Secretary Xi Jinping. China will enormous scale and putting more world, we have adhered to the path continue to be an anchor of military pressure on the DPRK. The of peaceful development. In the face international stability, an engine of two sides are like two accelerating of skepticism over the existing global growth, a champion of peace trains coming towards each other international order and system, we and development and a contributor with neither side willing to give way. have called for maintaining it and, to global governance. The question is, are the two sides where necessary, improving it. In the really ready for a head-on collision? face of a growing backlash against Reuters: The situation on the g l o b a l i z a t i o n a n d r i s i n g Korean Peninsula at the moment is Given the situation, our priority protectionism, we have championed extremely tense. North Korea has now is to flash the red light and apply multilateralism and openness and again test missiles this week. Does brakes on both trains. inclusiveness. It’s our responsibility China think there will be war on the as a major country to maintain Korean Peninsula? What is China’s To defuse the looming crisis on consistency and continuity in our strategy for preventing war from the peninsula, China proposes that, foreign policy, which can offset breaking out? as a first step, the DPRK suspend its

News From China l March 2017 19 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 missile and nuclear activities in solution, talks deserve another cooperation, we will fully implement exchange for a halt of the large-scale chance and peace is still within our the Strategy for BRICS Economic U S - R O K e x e r c i s e s . T h i s grasp. Partnership, enhance policy suspension-for-suspension can help coordination at the macro level and us break out of the security dilemma CCTV & CGTN: Some people the complementarity of our and bring the parties back to the believe that the era of Western development strategies, announce a negotiating table. Then we can domination is coming to an end; it is number of solid initiatives and add follow the dual-track approach of China and the other emerging more substance to BRICS denuclearizing the peninsula on the economies that hold the key to the cooperation. one hand and establishing a peace future. How does China view the mechanism on the other. Only by shifting balance of power in the Third, in terms of people-to- addressing the parties’ concerns in a world? Later this year, China will people exchange, we will implement synchronized and reciprocal host the BRICS Leaders Meeting. the agreements of our leaders and manner, can we find a fundamental What do you hope to accomplish? hold BRICS cultural festival, film solution to lasting peace and stability festival, sports meet and so on to on the peninsula. China’s proposal, Wang Yi: The BRICS countries expand all areas of people-to-people fully in keeping with resolutions are representative of the emerging exchange and build stronger public 2270 and 2321, tries to get to the economies. Over the years, the support for BRICS cooperation. crux of the matter. To resolve the fortunes of the BRICS may have nuclear issue, we have to walk on risen or fallen and BRICS each face Finally, in terms of South-South both legs, which means not just their own set of challenges. cooperation, we will explore the implementing sanctions, but also However, as President Xi Jinping has modality of “BRICS plus”. By restarting talks, both of which are set put it, the BRICS are like five fingers, holding outreach dialogues with out in the Security Council each with its own strength; when the other major developing countries resolutions. BRICS come together, we form a fist and organizations of developing that can punch. As long as we stay countries, we hope to establish a The nuclear issue on the Korean united, the BRICS will not lose its more extensive partnership, widen Peninsula is mainly between the luster; rather, it will shine more the BRICS’ circle of friends and turn DPRK and the United States. China brightly than ever. the BRICS into the most impactful is a next-door neighbor with a lips- p l a t f o r m f o r S o u t h - S o u t h and-teeth relationship with the This year, BRICS will enter into cooperation. peninsula, so we’re indispensable to its second decade. As the Chairman the resolution of the nuclear issue. this year, China will work with other TASS: After Trump became US China has a strong commitment to BRICS countries to review President, the world has made a lot denuclearizing the peninsula, to experience, plan the future, usher in of commentary on Russia-China-US maintaining stability there and to the second “golden decade” of relations. Do you think there will be resolving the issues peacefully. BRICS cooperation and provide any change in the triangular Indeed, China has done its level best BRICS’ input for world peace and relationship? to bring the DPRK and the US development. We hope to together and to chair the Six-Party accomplish four things this year. Wang Yi: Let me tell you at the Talks. We’ve also contributed to the outset that China-Russia relations adoption and implementation of First, in terms of political and are in excellent shape and we have Security Council resolutions. Going security cooperation, we will make great confidence in this relationship. forward, to continue my earlier full use of the meeting of national railway metaphor, China will security advisers, build consensus We have a comprehensive continue to be a “switch-man”. We for holding a stand-alone foreign s t r a t e g i c p a r t n e r s h i p o f will try to switch the issue back to the ministers’ meeting and demonstrate coordination not because it’s track of seeking a negotiated the strength of BRICS cooperation convenient; it’s a strategic decision settlement. And I wish to emphasize to the world. reached by both sides on the basis of that nuclear weapons will not bring our fundamental interests. The security, the use of force is no Second, in terms of practical relationship has stood the test of

20 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 international vicissitudes. It is as including UN resolutions. There is China-ROK relationship is strong as it’s ever been and our no basis in international law for the complicated and sensitive at the mutual trust has reached a historic Taiwan region to establish or moment. This year marks the 25th high. The relationship will not be maintain so-called “diplomatic anniversar y of China-ROK affected or weakened by any external relations” with any country. Since diplomatic relations. How does f a c t o r . We w e l c o m e a n y such relationships have no China plan to develop the improvement in Russia-US relations, legitimacy, surely they have no relationship? which will be an important piece of future! The Taiwan authorities good news for the world. This year, should recognize this major trend. Wang Yi: This year marks the the Presidents of China and Russia No one and no force can block the 25th anniversary of diplomatic will have multiple face-to-face eventual and complete reunification relations between China and the meetings, which will take our of China. ROK. China treasures what our two relationship to new heights. China peoples have built together in the and Russia will also improve CNN: President Trump has past 25 years. We hope the ROK will s t r a t e g i c c o o r d i n a t i o n o n adopted an America First and join China in preserving the mutually international and regional issues and isolationist approach, and beneficial cooperation between the act as a stabilizer in the otherwise commentators say this is China’s two sides. turbulent world. opportunity. Is China ready to take on global leadership? The US-ROK deployment of As for the China-US-Russia the controversial THAAD system in relationship in the new era, it should Wang Yi: Let me say this: First, the ROK is the biggest issue not be “a seesaw game”. The three China believes in the equality of all affecting China-ROK relations at countries should work with rather countries, large and small. We don’t the moment. China has expressed its than against each other. We should believe some countries should strong opposition to it all along. The pursue win-win rather than zero- “lead” other countries. Second, the monitoring and early warning radius sum outcomes. The three countries U N, a s t h e wo r l d ’s m o s t of THAAD reaches far beyond the can develop a positive and healthy authoritative and credible inter- Korean Peninsula, and it’s common relationship, so that we can jointly governmental organization, should k n o w l e d g e t h a t T H A A D fulfill our responsibilities for world play an effective role in coordinating undermines China’s strategic peace and development. international affairs according to the security. Clearly, deploying THAAD purposes and principles of its is the wrong choice. It’s not how Global Times: In 2016, Charter. Third, rather than talking neighbors should behave to each China re-established diplomatic about “leadership”, we should really other, and it may very well make the relations with Gambia, and Sao be talking about “responsibility”. ROK less secure. We strongly advise Tome and Principe. Earlier this Large countries have more resources some elements in the ROK not to year, Nigeria demanded that the and capability, so they should pursue this course of action, Taiwan mission there take off its shoulder more responsibilities and otherwise they will only end up placard and move out of the make a greater contribution. As a hurting themselves as well as others. capital. People in China hailed the permanent member of the UN China urges the ROK to cease and news. They believe that should the Security Council, China will fulfill its desist, halt the THAAD deployment Taiwan authorities stray further obligations for international peace and not to go further down the from the one-China principle, and security. As the second largest wrong path. they will have no future. Could we economy, China will make its due have your comment on it? contribution to global growth. As China Daily: In January, the largest developing country, President Xi Jinping visited some Wang Yi: There is only one China will play an even bigger role in international organizations in China in the world, and Taiwan is upholding the legitimate rights and Switzerland. In contrast, President part of China. This is a fact interests of fellow developing Trump’s criticism of the UN and recognized by the world and an countries. other multilateral institutions important principle enshrined in a worries a lot of people. Against this series of international documents Yonhap News Agency: The background, does China still have

News From China l March 2017 21 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 faith in the UN and multilateralism? What distinguishes China- people to say that there is bound to Africa cooperation is that China be a war between China and the US Wang Yi: President Xi’s visit to always keeps its word. Since the in those waters. Are you worried international organizations in Johannesburg Summit more than a about this prospect? Switzerland sent out a clear message year ago, the outcomes have been of China’s strong commitment to implemented in a swift and all-round Wang Yi: Tides have risen and multilateralism and strong support way. Nearly half of the 60-billion- fallen over the past year, and the for the UN-centered international dollar funding support that China South China Sea has returned to system. promised to Africa has been calm. I would go further than saying disbursed or arranged. The Addis the temperature has lowered The current international Ababa-Djibouti railway has been “somewhat” and say that it has system was built by our forefathers completed; the Mombasa-Nairobi lowered “significantly”. This is the from the ashes of the Second World railway in Kenya will soon be. result of the joint efforts of China War. It is the result of our collective Planning has started for the Pointe and ASEAN countries, and it’s efforts and wisdom. It’s like a well- Noire special economic zone in the welcome news for the region and the d e s i g n e d b u i l d i n g w i t h Republic of Congo. Integrated port world. At present, the DOC is being multilateralism being its cornerstone development in Tanzania is making implemented in a full and effective and the UN and other international smooth headway. And steady manner. The directly concerned organizations being its key pillars. progress is being made in building a countries have returned to the right Over 70 years has passed, so there number of industrial parks. track of settling their disputes has been some wear and tear, to be Responding to Africa’s needs, through dialogue and consultation. sure. But the building still shields us China-Africa cooperation is China and the ten ASEAN countries from wind and rain and still plays an undergoing three shifts: from are advancing the COC consultation irreplaceable role in promoting government-driven to market- to work out a common set of world peace and development. What driven, from trade in goods to regional rules. At the end of we should be doing is to renovate the cooperation on production capacity, February, the China-ASEAN joint building rather than constructing and from engineering contracts to working group has made visible another structure. On the other capital investment and operations. progress and produced the first draft hand, the international system These three shifts will provide new of COC framework. China and the cannot stay unchanged; it must be momentum and opportunities for ASEAN countries are all happy reformed so that it can better reflect Africa’s sustainable development. about it. At this moment, if someone the new reality, meet countries’ should try to make waves and stir needs and catch up with the Just as China was Africa’s most trouble, then he will have no support changing times. sincere friend in its quest for national but meet the common opposition of independence and liberation, so the entire region. China will never T a n z a n i a S t a n d a r d China will be Africa’s most reliable allow the hard-won stability to be Newspaper: It’s been over a year p a r t n e r i n s p e e d i n g u p disrupted again. since the Forum on China-Africa industrialization and agricultural C o o p e r a t i o n S u m m i t i n modernization and boosting its While some people in the world Johannesburg. Can you brief us on c a p a c i t y f o r h o m e - g r o w n believe in Alfred Mahan’s theory of the implementation of the development. controlling the seas, the Chinese outcomes for this summit? people prefer the approach taken by Phoenix TV: Compared to last Zheng He and value maritime Wang Yi: China and Africa are a year, the temperature in the South cooperation. In the 21st century, we close-knit community with a shared China Sea has lowered somewhat. would like to see more maritime future. Our cooperation is mutual Although tension has eased between cooperation and greater trust help between two brothers. No regional countries, non-regional between the parties. Even between matter how the international countries have not stopped China and the United States, if we situation or the world economy may meddling. The United States is change our mindset, then the vast evolve, there will be no weakening in increasing its military deployment in oceans may well become a broad China’s support for Africa. the South China Sea, leading some stage for cooperation.

22 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

Agencia EFE: The UK has diplomats are duty-bound to serve Development is of paramount launched its Brexit procedure, and domestic development. i m p o r t a n c e , a n d s e r v i n g elections are coming up in France development is our paramount task. and Germany. How does China see In the past few years, we have The Foreign Ministry will continue the future of Europe and its made great efforts to present the to work with various localities and cooperation with China? path of socialism with Chinese government departments to do a characteristics, thereby helping the better job in this regard. Wang Yi: The EU was the first world gain a fuller understanding of regional cooperation mechanism China and have greater confidence Philippine News Agency: established after the end of the in working with China. We have Since President Rodrigo Duterte Second World War; it’s also the one actively pursued cooperation on came into office, the China- that has developed the fastest. production capacity and signed Philippines relationship has made a Contrary to conventional wisdom, relevant agreements with over 30 big turnaround. What will China do we believe the challenges currently countries, thereby facilitating to boost further its relations with the confronting the EU may turn out to e c o n o m i c a n d i n d u s t r i a l Philippines? What development we be an opportunity for the EU to transformation and upgrading at can expect on China-ASEAN become more mature. China will home. We have secured the inclusion relationship in the coming year? continue to support European of the RMB in the IMF’s SDR basket integration and we hope to see a and established the BRICS New Wang Yi: Since President more united, stable and prosperous Development Bank and the Asian Duterte came into office, he has EU. Infrastructure Investment Bank, appropriately handled the South thereby greatly expanding China’s China Sea issue and actively We set store by Europe’s institutional rights in global improved relations with China. This strategic position and important economic governance. The Foreign not only serves the interests of the role. We would like to work with Ministry has launched promotional Philippines, but also meets the Europe to advance the partnerships events for Chinese provinces. Over expectation of the region. The for peace, growth, reform and the past year, we have held such Philippines has extended a hand of civilization; to respect and address events for six western and central friendship, so of course, China has each other’s legitimate concerns and provinces and autonomous regions. embraced it with open arms. The promptly remove obstacles to These events help the provinces to turnaround of China-Philippines c o o p e r a t i o n ; t o p r a c t i c e discuss cooperation with foreign relations lifts our friendship and multilateralism and move toward a partners without going abroad. They benefits our two peoples and the multi-polar world; and to re-energize also help foreign diplomats in China wider region. None of this has the world economy, improve global to have a better knowledge of local happened by accident; it merely governance and ensure the healthy opportunities without traveling reflects what the relationship is development of economic outside Beijing. Every day, our supposed to be like. globalization. missions around the world send back information and serve as At present, the two countries are China News Service: The bridges for business cooperation tapping the full potential of our promotional events held by the between China and other countries. bilateral cooperation to make up for Foreign Ministry to present Chinese Since the G20 Summit last year, lost time. In the less than six months provinces to the world have been Zhejiang Province and the city of since President Duterte’s visit to warmly welcomed. In the last few Hangzhou have taken on a new look China, nearly 1,000 Chinese tourist years, the Foreign Ministry has done and made new progress in their groups have visited the Philippines a lot to serve domestic and local economic and social development. and China has imported over development. Could you talk about People say that hosting the summit 200,000 tons of tropical fruits from it? has given the city a major lift, and the Philippines. The two sides are eventually it’s the local residents who having intensive discussions on a Wang Yi: China is still a have benefited the most. range of infrastructural projects, developing country, so Chinese including railways, bridges and dams,

News From China l March 2017 23 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 and some of them may begin million mutual visits by 2020, and and its overseas missions handled construction within this year. The make people-to-people exchange a over 100,000 consular cases. We new Commerce Minister of China is new pillar of China-ASEAN successfully rescued mainland and visiting the Philippines even as we relations. Taiwan compatriots who had been speak. This shows China’s desire to We would also like to work with held by Gulf of Aden pirates for s t r e n g t h e n f r i e n d s h i p a n d ASEAN to enhance Lancang- almost five years, evacuated over cooperation with the Philippines. Mekong Cooperation (LMC), speed 1,000 of our countrymen and The two sides have agreed to up work on the 45 “early harvest” women from the conflict in South establish a bilateral consultation on programs, and invite applications for Sudan, and transferred over 1,000 of the South China Sea issue and set up the LMC special fund. The China our people trapped by earthquake, a cooperation mechanism between Secretariat for LMC will be set up in fire or blizzard in New Zealand, our coast guards. In short, the a few days’ time. We hope LMC will Israel, Japan and so on. Whenever China-Philippines relationship has become a flagship initiative in there is difficulty or danger for returned to the right path, one that China’s efforts to build a community Chinese people overseas, there serves the interests of both peoples. of shared future with our neighbors would appear Chinese diplomats and Together, the two sides should and contribute more to the the five-starred red flag of China. march forward with unity of narrowing of disparity and the purpose. promotion of integration in our Currently, mainland residents region. make over 120 million outbound The turnaround in China- visits every year. For six years, the Philippines relations has scattered Beijing TV: More and more number has been growing at an the dark clouds over China-ASEAN Chinese people are going abroad. annual rate of 10 million and relations. Last year marks the 25th Whenever they run into difficulty, counting. Consular protection is anniversary of the China-ASEAN they would turn to the motherland becoming a more formidable task dialogue relations, and this year for help. What has the Foreign for us. But whatever the difficulty or marks the 50th anniversary of Ministry and its overseas missions challenge, the Party central ASEAN’s founding. The silver done to ensure their safety? leadership and the general public can anniversary and the golden count on us doing a better in anniversary are especially auspicious Wang Yi: Your question about consular protection. for regional cooperation. China will consular protection reminds me of support the Philippines in fulfilling the recent shipwreck in Malaysia. TV Asahi: This year marks the its responsibilities as the ASEAN One of the Chinese persons who 45th anniversary of normalized Chair, and we will help build the has been rescued said to the relations between China and Japan. ASEAN Community. journalists that when they were The economic relationship is fine floating in the vast ocean and with but our political relations have We would like to work with food and water about to run out, she stalled. What’s China’s view? ASEAN to pursue greater mutual encouraged her fellow Chinese by benefit, intensify cooperation on saying, “if the embassy knows about Wang Yi: This year marks the connectivity and production us, it will come looking for us, and we 45th anniversary of normalized capacity, make sure our peoples will be saved. “ Now at a moment of relations between China and Japan, benefit from the upgraded China- life and death, our people pin their but it also marks the 80th ASEAN FTA as soon as possible, hopes on the embassy, and it’s what anniversary of the so-called “Marco and wrap up the RCEP negotiation helps them persevere. Our people Polo Bridge Incident”. These two at an early date. have great trust in Chinese anniversary dates represent two diplomats: this is an enormous totally different paths, the one We would like to work with responsibility for us. We must never leading to peace and friendship and ASEAN to strengthen our bonds of betray their trust and we spare no the other to war and confrontation. friendship, make a success of the effort to meet our responsibility. Eighty years ago, Japan launched China-ASEAN tourism cooperation full-scale invasion of China, year, strive to meet the target of 30 In 2016, the Foreign Ministry inflicting horrendous suffering on

24 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 the people of China and other Asian fugitives from more than 90 regional issues. And third, we must countries and pushing itself into the countries and regions on charges of put the UN in the driver’s seat of the dark abyss. Forty-five years ago, corruption and economic crime, and Middle East peace process. Japanese leaders drew the right 38 of them are on the list of 100 lesson from history and mended most wanted fugitives. We have The Iranian nuclear agreement relations with its neighbor, thereby concluded extradition treaties and is a fine example of settling disputes realizing fast development at home. mutual judicial assistance treaties by political and diplomatic means. Several decades on, however, some with 70 countries, knitting a web that The relevant parties should all honor people in Japan are still torn between basically covers the major countries their commitment, fulfill their the two paths and try to reverse the on all continents. When hosting obligation and effectively implement course of history. We hope all peace- APEC and G20 meetings, we have that agreement. loving people in Japan will make sure built international consensus on their country will head in the right anti-corruption cooperation. The The issue of Palestine is an open direction in this important international community has praised wound in the Middle East. Peace anniversary year. China’s determination and progress may be delayed, but justice cannot be in this regard, which is a big plus for denied. China firmly supports the As for China-Japan relations, our international reputation. two-state solution and will continue China’s position has been consistent to do what we can to help restart the and clear-cut. Of course, we want to The CPC Central Committee peace talks. improve relations with Japan for the and the general public care greatly benefit of our two peoples. But first about bringing back fugitives and The Paper: New media is of all, Japan has to adopt the right recovering their assets. The Foreign changing the world profoundly. frame of mind, be sensible and come Ministry will continue to do its best How is China’s diplomacy to terms with the fact of China’s to shatter the illusion of fugitives responding to this new reality? development and revitalization. and make them understand that there is no safe haven abroad and Wang Yi: The Foreign Ministry China National Radio: Yang they cannot escape justice wherever never shies away from new things. As Xiuzhu, the fugitive at the top of the they may be. soon as new media was gaining list of 100 most wanted persons of momentum, we began to make use China’s anti-corruption campaign Al Jazeera: The situation in the of it. Diplo-Chat, our new media code-named Sky Net, returned to Middle East is becoming ever more account, has attracted 12 million China last November. The news complicated. As a permanent followers. Various Foreign Ministry caused quite a stir both at home and member of the UN Security departments and overseas missions abroad. What has the Foreign Council, what role will China play on have opened over 130 new media Ministry and its overseas missions the regional issues? accounts, including the very popular done to help bring back fugitives and China Consular Affairs account on recover their assets? Wang Yi: Once again the WeChat. Through these new media situation in the Middle East has platforms, we are able to deliver Wang Yi: Under the leadership reached a crucial crossroads with useful information concerning of the CPC Central Committee, both risks of growing instability and world affairs, consular protection, various government departments the promise of peace. external cooperation and so on to have worked together to bring back the smart devices of our followers; corruption fugitives and recover In China’s view, to nudge the almost immediately, we can get their their assets. The Foreign Ministry regional situation in the right c o m m e n t s, s u g g e s t i o n s o r has played an important part in this. direction, three things are of crucial complaints. So new media has built a Since the 18th CPC Congress, the importance. First, we need to direct, two-way bridge between the Foreign Ministry and its overseas maintain the important consensus Foreign Ministry and the general missions have done all we can and on fighting terrorism. Second, we public. It has make China’s worked closely with the relevant need to adhere to the right goal of diplomacy more down-to-earth and authorities to bring back over 2,500 seeking a political settlement of the better understood by our people.

News From China l March 2017 25 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

Serving the people is the abiding of consular protection. I want to and help from the WeChat platform. goal of China’s diplomacy. Going make an announcement here. In two I’m sure this will make things much forward, we will make still greater weeks’ time, the Foreign Ministry easier for our people. use of new media to set up more will launch the WeChat version of “antennas” to pick up public 12308. In the future, apart from The press conference lasted two opinion, operate more “through- dialing the consular hot-line, people hours and was attended by more than trains” to provide direct services for who run into difficulty in another 500 Chinese and foreign journalists. the people and offer more “lifelines” country can seek real-time advice CHINESE LEADERS REVIEW GOVERNMENT WORK REPORT WITH LAWMAKERS

Beijing, March 5 (Xinhua) — “seeking progress while maintaining of the annual session of China’s top Senior Chinese leaders on Sunday stability.” legislature, the National People’s joined national legislators in Congress (NPC). deliberating the government work The report was delivered by report, stressing the main theme of Premier Li Keqiang at the opening Z h a n g D e j i a n g , Y u

26 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

Zhengsheng, Liu Yunshan and Committee, joined a delegation of breakthroughs in reforms.P Major Wang Qishan,all members of the lawmakers from central China’s tasks in supply-side structural Standing Committee of the Political Hubei Province during another reform should be accomplished to Bureau of the Communist Party of panel discussion. improve growth quality and China (CPC) Central Committee, efficiency, he added. joined national lawmakers in Yu urged Hubei Province to deliberating the report. apply the new concepts of Wang Qishan, also secretary of development and advance supply- the CPC Central Commission for Zhang, also chairman of the side structural reform. Discipline Inspection, joined NPC NPC Standing Committee, joined deputies from Beijing. lawmakers from east China’s He called for further efforts to Zhejiang Province. conserve energy and protect the Wang stressed the need to environment to provide the people explore effective CPC self- Zhang stressed concrete actions with clean water, fresh air, safe food s u p e r v i s i o n f o r l o n g - t e r m to implement the decisions and and beautiful environment. governance, deepen reform of the policies of the CPC Central national supervisory system and Committee, promote the steady and Liu Yunshan joined NPC establish an anti-graft mechanism healthy development of the deputies from Inner Mongolia under the unified leadership of the economy and the harmony of the Autonomous Region in their panel Party. society to create a favorable discussion. environment for the 19th National The CPC should enhance Congress of the Party, slated for L i u c a l l e d f o r p r o p e r supervision over itself and state later this year. understanding of the relations organs to realize full-coverage between maintaining stability and oversight of all public servants, he Yu Zhengsheng, also chairman seeking progress, stressing efforts to added. of the Chinese People’s Political guide social expectations and Consultative Conference National dissolve risks, while making

CHINA’S NATIONAL LEGISLATURE CONCLUDES ANNUAL SESSION

Beijing, March 15 (Xinhua) — Lawmakers also approved the Committee member Xu Xianming. The National People’s Congress General Provisions of the Civil Law, (NPC), China’s national legislature, the decision on the quota and Leaders of the Communist concluded its annual session election of deputies to the 13th Party of China (CPC) and the state Wednesday morning. NPC, and the methods for electing Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang, Zhang deputies to the 13th NPC from Dejiang, Yu Zhengsheng, Liu Among 2,838 NPC deputies Hong Kong and Macao special Yunshan, Wang Qishan and Zhang present at the closing meeting, 2,812 administrative regions. Gaoli attended the closing meeting voted in favor of the government at the Great Hall of the People. work report; 2,793 for the work Other documents approved by report of the NPC Standing the lawmakers included the 2017 In his closing remarks, Zhang Committee; 2,606 for the work national economic and social Dejiang, chairman of the NPC report of the Supreme People’s development plan, and the 2017 Standing Committee, hailed the Court; and 2,606 for the work report central and local budgets. achievements made under the o f t h e S u p r e m e Pe o p l e ’s The lawmakers also approved leadership of the CPC Central Procuratorate. the resignation of NPC Standing Committee with Xi Jinping as the

News From China l March 2017 27 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

core since the 18th CPC National President Xi, who is also general Central Military Commission, has Congress in 2012. secretary of the CPC Central attained great prestige among the Committee and chairman of the Party, the military and people of all ethnic groups, and become the core of the CPC Central Committee and the entire Party, according to Zhang.

Zhang called for maintaining a high degree of consistency with the CPC Central Committee with Xi as the core in thoughts, politics and actions, upholding the authority of the CPC Central Committee and its centralized and unified leadership, as well as faithfully implementing the Party’s policies and the CPC Central Committee’s decisions.

The General Provisions of the Civil Law, which take effect on Oct. 1, is the opening chapter of a long- awaited civil code.

The civil code will include individual books that deal with property, contracts, tort liability,

28 News From China l March 2017 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017 marriage and inheritance, according effectively, and make new China’s socialist democracy, said an to the legislative plan. contributions in upholding, editorial published by Xinhua implementing and developing the Tuesday. Zhang called for stepping up people’s congress system. work on the books to ensure a civil The editorial stressed better use code that has Chinese characteristics The people’s congress system, a of the system to ensure that the and reflects the spirit of the time and f u n d a m e n t a l i n s t i t u t i o n a l country is effectively governed the will of the people be enacted in arrangement that integrates the under the Party’s leadership, 2020. principles of upholding the Party’s decisions by the CPC Central leadership, the people being the Committee are implemented and all Zhang also called on NPC master of the country and the rule sorts of work is pursued according deputies to always bear the people’s o f l aw, d e m o n s t r a t e s t h e to the law. wishes in mind, perform their duties characteristics and advantages of CHINA’S NATIONAL LEGISLATURE STRESSES UNITY AROUND XI AS CORE

News From China l March 2017 29 NPC & CPPCC Annual Sessions 2017

Beijing, March 8 (Xinhua) — Political Consultative Conference legislation, Zhang said. China’s top legislator on Wednesday (CPPCC) National Committee pledged further conformity to the opened on Friday. According to the plan, the Communist Party of China (CPC) legislature will revise the Law on Central Committee with Xi Jinping Dubbed as the “two sessions,” Administrative Supervision to turn it as the core. the dual meetings are among the into a national supervision law amid most important political events efforts to establish a “centralized, National lawmakers should where development agendas are unified, authoritative and highly- unite more closely “around the CPC reviewed and discussed, and key efficient” national supervision Central Committee with Xi Jinping policies adopted. system. as the core,” to develop the system of the people’s congress and realize In reviewing the work last year, The draft general provisions of the dream of national rejuvenation, Zhang said the NPC Standing the civil law was submitted for said Zhang Dejiang, chairman of the Committee advanced legislation in review after three readings last year. National People’s Congress (NPC) key areas, including developing the If adopted, it will bring China one Standing Committee, while system of national security laws, step closer to the country’s first civil delivering a work report of the NPC drafting general provisions of civil code. Compiling of the individual Standing Committee. law and making the law on books will be stepped up so that the environmental protection tax. civil code could be enacted in 2020. The endorsement of Xi as the core “reflects the will of all members Decisions were made on major The legislature will also of the Party, all members of the issues, including disqualifying 45 formulate laws on e-commerce, armed forces and all the people of NPC deputies elected by the nuclear safety, intelligence and soil China,” Zhang told nearly 3,000 Liaoning Provincial People’s pollution prevention, among others, NPC deputies gathered at the Great Congress for bribing voters and according to the report. Hall of the People. interpreting Article 104 of the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special “Good laws are a prerequisite The NPC, the highest body of Administrative Region to oppose for good governance. The legislation state power, opened its annual any attempt at secession of Hong plans this year will help crack hard session on Sunday to set the national Kong from China. nuts in future reforms which have development agenda for this year. entered the deep-water zone,” said Zhang announced the national NPC deputy Sun Xianzhong, a The system of the people’s legislature’s major tasks for 2017, a researcher with Chinese Academy of congress enables the people to crucial year in the journey toward a Social Sciences. “It reflects Xi’s exercise their power as “masters of moderately prosperous society by governance thought and the the state.” 2020. The CPC will convene the common will of the people.” 19th National Congress later this It was at the first session of the year to elect new leadership for the The Party’s leadership is also 12th NPC in March 2013 that Xi was next five years. highlighted in the legislature’s elected Chinese president. He had oversight over the work of the State been elected general secretary of the In 2017, effective legislation will Council, the Supreme People’s Court CPC Central Committee in be produced to promote national and the Supreme People’s November 2012 at the 18th CPC development under the leadership Procuratorate. National Congress of the Party. The NPC and its Standing Zhang’s remarks echoed Yu The Leading Party Members’ Committee will strengthen oversight Zhengsheng, China’s top political Group of the NPC Standing of the implementation of plans for advisor, who also voiced conformity Committee must promptly request supply-side structural reform and to the CPC Central Committee with instructions from and submit p o v e r t y a l l e v i a t i o n , b o t h Xi as the core when the annual reports to the CPC Central fundamental to building a well-off session of the Chinese People’s Committee on major issues in society, according to the work

30 News From China l March 2017 External Affairs report. and practical accomplishments that “Chinese philosophy of the CPC Central Committee with Xi governance includes two concepts: This has been the fifth and last as the core has made in upholding ‘minyi,’ or public opinion, and session of the 12th NPC. The and improving the system of ‘minxin,’ or the hearts and minds of legislature will ensure well-organized people’s congress and in advancing the people,” said Wen Yang, a elections of deputies to people’s the rule of law, Zhang said. researcher with the Institute of congresses, including those to the China Studies at Fudan University. 13th NPC, Zhang said. “We are closer than ever in history to realizing the rejuvenation “New ideas, thought and The election of deputies to the of the Chinese nation, and we have strategies of state governance under 13th NPC shall be completed in greater confidence in achieving this the leadership of the CPC Central January 2018, according to the draft goal and greater capacity to do so Committee with Xi as the core have decision. than ever before,” he said. solid foundation of public opinion. Proven successful by experience, The legislature will also work to China stresses the unity of Party they have won the people’s hearts,” u n d e r s t a n d , e x p l a i n , a n d leadership, people being masters of he said. communicate the new theoretical the country and the rule of law.

External Affairs CHINA, SAUDI ARABIA AGREE TO BOOST ALL-ROUND STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

News From China l March 2017 31 External Affairs

Beijing, March 16 (Xinhua) — its “Saudi Vision 2030” plan, and countries, he added. Chinese President Xi Jinping and welcomes the country to be a visiting Saudi Arabian King Salman partner in the Belt and Road The solution to many issues in bin Abdulaziz Al Saud have agreed Initiative, Xi said. the Middle East lies in development, the two countries will step up Xi said. cooperation in all areas and push China is a reliable and stable forward their all-round strategic market for Saudi Arabia’s oil, Xi said, China hopes to boost the Belt partnership. calling for closer cooperation in such and Road Initiative with countries areas as energy, communication, along the route including Middle In their talks Thursday in aviation, finance and investment, Eastern countries, he added. Beijing, Xi recalled his visit to Saudi culture, education, public health, Arabia last year, during which he technology, tourism, media and King Salman voiced adherence reached consensus with King security. to the one-China policy, and vowed Salman in advancing bilateral ties to cement cooperation with China in and cementing cooperation in Xi said China and Muslim the areas of trade, investment, international and regional affairs. countries respect each other and set finance and energy, in order to an example of harmonious upgrade their all-round strategic Xi said he was happy to see that coexistence between civilizations. partnership. consensus had been implemented by both sides. In Middle East affairs, China Saudi Arabia highly values advocates respecting national China’s stance of non-interference China supports Saudi Arabia as sovereignty and non-interference in in other countries’ internal affairs, it advances on a development path internal affairs, Xi said. and solving disputes through suitable to its national conditions, dialogue and peaceful means, he maintains national sovereignty, China advocates solving said. security and development interests, disputes through dialogue, easing King Salman also appreciated and plays greater role in regional and tensions on hot issues, giving full China’s role in maintaining global affairs, Xi said. play to the United Nations’ key role international peace and security, and paying more heed to the voice expressing his hope for China’s China supports Saudi Arabia in of regional organizations and greater role in Middle Eastern

32 News From China l March 2017 External Affairs

affairs. education and technology. King Salman is on a state visit to China from March 15-18 at Xi’s After their talks, the two heads They also attended the closing invitation. It is his first China visit of states witnessed the signing of ceremony of an exhibition of since becoming king of Saudi Arabia cooperative agreements on trade, archeological relics from Saudi in 2015. economy, energy, capacity, culture, Arabia. PRESIDENT XI MEETS U.S. SECRETARY OF STATE

Beijing, March 19 (Xinhua) — communications with his U.S. and properly address and manage President Xi Jinping met here counterpart Donald Trump through sensitive issues. Sunday with visiting U.S. Secretary telephone calls and messages, and The two sides should grasp the of State Rex Tillerson, saying that that they had agreed that the two g e n e r a l d i r e c t i o n f o r t h e cooperation is the only correct countries could be good cooperative development of China-U.S. relations choice for both countries. partners. in an attitude responsible for history T h e r e a r e i m p o r t a n t To advance China-U.S. ties in a and future generations, said Xi. development oppor tunities healthy and steady manner, both Xi suggested that the two resulting from China-U.S. relations, sides, Xi expressed, could enhance countries increase strategic trust and said Xi during the meeting in the exchanges at high level and various mutual understanding, review Great Hall of People in Beijing. levels; expand cooperation in bilateral ties from long-term and Xi said he had maintained sound bilateral, regional and global fields; strategic perspectives and expand

News From China l March 2017 33 External Affairs

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 19, 2017. (Xinhua/Ju Peng) fields of cooperation for win-win President Trump for a visit to China. confrontation, mutual respect and outcomes. Tillerson said President Trump win-win cooperation, said Tillerson. The two countries should also valued communication with It is Tillerson’s first visit to enhance coordination on regional President Xi, and looked forward to China since he assumed office last hotspot issues, respect each other’s meeting Xi and the opportunity for a month. State Councilor Yang Jiechi core interests and major concerns visit to China. and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held and encourage friendly exchanges The U.S. side is ready to develop separate meetings with Tillerson on between the two peoples, said Xi. relations with China based on the Saturday. Xi also extended welcome to principle of no conflict, no XI JINPING MEETS WITH KING NORODOM SIHAMONI AND QUEEN MOTHER NORODOM MONINEATH SIHANOUK OF CAMBODIA

On March 6, 2017, President Xi Xi Jinping pointed out that the precious as it was jointly initiated and Jinping met with King Norodom traditional friendship between meticulously fostered by the older Sihamoni and Queen Mother people of China and Cambodia generations of Chinese leaders and Norodom Monineath Sihanouk of enjoys a long-standing history. King Father Norodom Sihanouk. Cambodia at Zhongnanhai. China-Cambodia friendship is fairly Entering a new historical period,

34 News From China l March 2017 External Affairs

China-Cambodia relations has again Xi Jinping stressed that in order becomes newer as time goes by. been endowed with vitality and thus to push China-Cambodia relations President Xi Jinping’s historic visit to achieved substantial development. I for continuous and in-depth Cambodia last year has effectively successfully exchanged visits with development, both sides should consolidated Cambodia-China King Norodom Sihamoni last year. maintain the momentum of high- friendship and advanced Cambodia- At present, the two countries share level contacts, frequently visit each China cooperation. The Cambodian high political mutual trust and other like relatives and intensify royal family, government and people mutually beneficial economic communication and exchanges. thank China for the long-lasting and cooperation, help each other to Both sides should deepen mutually profound friendship to the realize respective national beneficial and practical cooperation, Cambodian royal family and the development and intensify strengthen the integration of vigorous support for the national coordination in international and development strategies and economic and social development regional affairs. Having been actively vigorously advance cooperation in of Cambodia. The Cambodian royal committed to promoting the cause key projects. The two sides should family will inherit King Father of China-Cambodia friendship for a also enhance coordination in Norodom Sihanouk’s friendly policy long time, the Cambodian royal multilateral affairs and constantly towards China and actively boost the family has made important make contributions to safeguarding continuous development of bilateral contributions to the development of regional stability and the overall relations. bilateral relations. The Chinese side situation of China-ASEAN is willing to make joint efforts with cooperation. President Xi Jinping’s wife Cambodia to constantly push Mme. Peng Liyuan, State Councilor f o r w a r d C h i n a - C a m b o d i a Norodom Sihamoni and Yang Jiechi and others were present c o m p r e h e n s i v e s t r a t e g i c Norodom Monineath Sihanouk at the meeting. cooperation to new highs, so as to expressed that with deep roots, better benefit the two peoples. Cambodia-China friendship

News From China l March 2017 35 External Affairs LI KEQIANG AND UK PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY EXCHANGE CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES ON THE 45TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AMBASSADORIAL LEVEL DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN CHINA AND THE UK

On March 13, 2017, Premier Li bringing tangible benefits to the two wishes to the Chinese government Keqiang and Prime Minister Theresa peoples. Currently, China-UK and people in her congratulatory May of the UK exchanged relations stand at a new starting message. She said that the UK-China c o n g r a t u l a t o r y m e s s a g e s , point in history and share a solid partnership enjoys a sustained celebrating the 45th anniversary of cooperation foundation as well as a development. Both sides maintain the establishment of ambassadorial broad development space. China is frequent high-level exchanges, level diplomatic relations between willing to make joint efforts with the achieve fruitful outcomes from both countries. UK to further consolidate bilateral high-level dialogues, increasingly political mutual trust, pursue new intensify trade and investment Li Keqiang expressed in the achievements in mutually beneficial communication, and constantly congratulatory message that over and practical cooperation, and push deepen people-to-people and the past 45 years, the interest bilateral relations for further and cultural exchange, which has greatly integration between China and the steadier development along the track improved the well-being of the two UK has been continuously o f m u t u a l t r u s t , m u t u a l countries. Looking into the future, deepened. Both countries have complementarity and mutual the UK-China cooperation will made fruitful achievements from benefit, so as to better benefit the surely score more fr uitful mutually beneficial cooperation and people of both countries. achievements. increasingly intensified people-to- people and cultural exchanges, Theresa May extended best YANG JIECHI MEETS WITH US SECRETARY OF STATE REX TILLERSON

On February 28, 2017 local Yang Jiechi noted that when China-US relations for greater time, State Councilor Yang Jiechi, President Xi Jinping and President development. In the next phase, who was visiting the US, met with Donald Trump held telephone talks China is willing to, together with the Secretary of State Rex Tillerson of not long ago, they unanimously US, in accordance with the the US at the US State Department. agreed to make joint efforts to push consensus reached by the two heads

36 News From China l March 2017 External Affairs

of state, adhere to the principles of development, so as to benefit the expand cooperation in various fields no conflict, no confrontation, two peoples as well as people of and properly handle sensitive issues mutual respect and win-win various countries in the world. through consultations, so as to make cooperation, enhance exchanges at US-China relations achieve better high level and all levels, deepen Rex Tillerson expressed that development and make more bilateral exchanges and cooperation President Donald Trump and contributions to promoting i n va r i o u s f i e l d s, e x p a n d President Xi Jinping set a positive international and regional peace and communication and coordination tone for the development of US- prosperity. on international, regional and global China relations. The US is willing to issues, respect each other’s core make joint efforts with China to Both sides also exchanged views interests and major concerns and view bilateral relations from a wider on international and regional topics push China-US relations for perspective, strengthen high-level of common interests. constant, healthy and stable dialogues and exchanges, constantly 2017 FIRST BRICS SHERPA MEETING CONCLUDES SUCCESSFULLY

From February 23 to 24, 2017, Jiechi attended and addressed the the meeting. Nearly 100 people the first BRICS Sherpa meeting was opening ceremony. China’s Sherpa including Sherpas and Sous- held in Nanjing of Jiangsu for BRICS Affairs and Vice Foreign Sherpas of BRICS countries, province. State Councilor Yang Minister Li Baodong presided over foreign diplomatic envoys in China

News From China l March 2017 37 External Affairs

as well as representatives from the representative meeting for security All parties unanimously agreed to New Development Bank were affairs, Foreign Ministers’ meeting and support China to well host the present. other mechanisms to enhance Xiamen Summit. It is believed that communication and coordination in under joint efforts of China and all Centering on the theme of international and regional issues and parties, the BRICS cooperation in Stronger Partnership for a Brighter play a constructive role in 2017 will achieve fruitful outcomes, Future, the meeting conducted in- safeguarding global peace and which will open up a brighter future depth discussions on world political security. BRICS countries should for the common development of and economic situation, 4 major deeply implement the BRICS BRICS countries, the economic and topics including the key points of Economic Partnership Strategy, social development of emerging 2 0 1 7 B R I C S c o o p e r a t i o n , strengthen coordination on markets and developing countries as cooperation in political security, macroeconomic policies under the well as the cause of global peace and economic cooperation and people-to- G20 framework, build an open world development. people and cultural exchanges and economy, improve global economic cooperation as well as the work plan governance, deepen practical On January 1, 2017, China in 2017, reaching extensive consensus. cooperation in trade, investment, officially assumed the BRICS Representatives of all countries finance and other fields among presidency, and will hold the 9th appreciated China’s leading role as the BRICS countries, reinforce people-to- BRICS Summit in Xiamen of Fujian presidency, and expressed their people and cultural exchanges and province from September 3 to 5. unanimous approval on the theme cooperation, and hold cultural The Sherpa meeting this time is the and topics of the Xiamen Summit festivals, film festivals, sports games, first official event held by China as and the annual work plan. All parties high-level meeting on traditional the BRICS presidency in 2017, and it agreed that the current international medicine and other activities to aims to make political preparations political and economic situation is consolidate the public opinion for the convening of the Xiamen undergoing complicated and foundation of cooperation. We Summit. The Sherpa meeting profound changes. As the BRICS should advance the construction of charted the course and key points for cooperation enters into a new decade, cooperation mechanisms and beef up the BRICS cooperation in 2017, it faces new opportunities and the synchronization of practical clarified the “roadmap” for the challenges. BRICS countries should cooperation in all fields to form advancement and laid a foundation fully make use of the high effective synergy. for earnestly advancing the preparation for the Xiamen Summit.

38 News From China l March 2017 China India Relations China India Relations YANG JIECHI MEETS WITH FOREIGN SECRETARY SUBRAMANYAM JAISHANKAR OF INDIA

On February 21, 2017, State with the Indian side to well relationship with China, India stands Councilor Yang Jiechi met at implement the consensus reached by ready to strengthen dialogues and Zhongnanhai with Foreign leaders of both countries, maintain communication at all levels and in Secretary Subramanyam Jaishankar high-level exchanges, enhance various fields, as well as expand of India, who was in China for the strategic communication and bilateral and multilateral cooperation China-India Strategic Dialogue. expand practical cooperation, so as with China to push bilateral relations Yang Jiechi expressed that to promote China-India relations to for new progress. current China-India relations further develop. Both sides also exchanged views maintain a sound development Subramanyam Jaishankar said on the international situation and momentum. China is willing to work that attaching high importance to its other topics of common interests.

News From China l March 2017 39 China India Relations

CHINA, INDIA SHOULD FOCUS ON COOPERATION RATHER THAN DISPUTES

Beijing, March 4 (Xinhua) — which surged from two billion U.S. border crimes and terrorism. China and India as the world’s two dollars in the 1990s to last year’s largest developing countries should more than 70 billion dollars. Fu said the two countries have a focus on enhancing mutual lot of consensus on regional and understanding and boosting Air connectivity has improved international issues. While some cooperation rather than dwelling on remarkably, with 40 direct flights disputes remain, the issues have been disputes, said a spokesperson for between the two countries every discussed properly through China’s top legislature Saturday. week, Fu said. diplomatic channels.

At a press conference a day There have also been frequent She said China and India both before the National People’s exchanges of visits by leaders of the face different challenges in Congress (NPC) convenes its yearly two countries, and the two militaries development. The two countries meeting, spokesperson Fu Ying said visit each other every year, the should understand each other more China and India have over the past spokesperson said, adding China and not let disputes stand in the way d e c a d e s w i t n e s s e d r a p i d and India have also established a of bilateral cooperation. development of bilateral trade, mechanism to jointly combat cross-

40 News From China l March 2017 China India Relations

News From China l March 2017 41 China India Relations

Speaking of the China-India mind the bigger picture when organizations have joined the strategic dialogue held in Beijing in looking at issues.” initiative, while Chinese businesses February, Fu said the dialogue had have helped build 56 economic and been extensive and deep. “I felt it The initiative was proposed by trade cooperation zones in 20 was quite positive,” she said. China in 2013, aiming to become a countries along the Belt and Road, trade and infrastructure network with total investment exceeding 18 Fu added that projects under connecting Asia with Europe and billion U.S. dollars, helping generate China’s Belt and Road Initiative are Africa along ancient trade routes. over 1 billion U.S. dollars in tax designed to promote economic revenue and more than 160,000 jobs. development. “Ultimately, India will Official figures show that more also benefit from it. We must bear in than 100 countries and international AMBASSADOR LUO ZHAOHUI CELEBRATES THE HOLI FESTIVAL WITH INDIA PRESS

On March 9, H.E. Ambassador celebration with India press in by Indian Association of Foreign Luo Zhaohui and his wife Dr. Jiang Chinese Embassy. Affairs Correspondents and the Yili held the Holi Festival The celebration is cosponsored Foreign Correspondents’ Club of

42 News From China l March 2017 China India Relations

South Asia, which are two influential extended warm festival greetings to Narayan, President of the Foreign correspondent institutes in India. India friends and mainly introduced Correspondent’s Club of South Asia Two hundred people from India the two sessions which are being delivered warm speechs. newspapers, news agency, TV held in Beijing. H.E. Ambassador Luo Zhaohui channels and think tanks attended Mr. Vijay Naik, Convenor of also presented prize to the winners the celebration. India Association of Foreign Affairs of social media competition H.E. Ambassador Luo Zhaohui Correspondents and Mr. Venkat for”Visit to China”.

News From China l March 2017 43 China India Relations

ADDRESS BY H.E. AMBASSADOR LUO ZHAOHUI AT THE HOLI RECEPTION FOR INDIAN MEDIA (March 9, 2017, Chinese Embassy)

Mr. Vijay Naik, Convener of people. The rain this afternoon is arrival of spring. It also provides a Indian Association of Foreign certainly to honor the guests. t e m p o r a r y o p p o r t u n i t y t o Affairs Correspondents, disregard social norms. Holi Today we are gathered here to reminds us that Great Lord Vishnu, Mr. Venkat Narayan, President celebrate the Holi Festival. First of Shiva and Krishna celebrate of the Foreign Correspondents’ all I would like to welcome you all to together with the secular world of Club of South Asia, my Embassy. You represent more ordinary people. than 50 media and think tank Ladies and Gentlemen, institutes. I am grateful for Mr. Naik Right now people in many and Mr. Narayan for co-hosting the countries are participating in the Namaste! reception. “color run” which is originated from Holi. Like Yoga, this is another gift As an old Chinese saying goes, H o l i o r i g i n a l l y wa s a n from India to the world. rain always comes with the noble agricultural festival celebrating the

44 News From China l March 2017 China India Relations

On this special occasion, I wish relations. It promotes better the GDP per capita reached 8000 you all happiness and good health. understanding between our two USD. This year we set a target of peoples, and also helps China to around 6.5%. India’s GDP growth I have been here for almost half understand Indian perspectives. I last year is estimated at 7.1%. China a year this time. What impressed me appreciate what you have done to and India are the fastest growing most is the big progress of the bridge China-India interactions and economies. media, compared with my first term friendship. As a diplomat and reader, in India 28 years ago. I read almost 10 newspapers and Friends, watch TV programs and get a lot of Firstly, the Media has developed valuable information every day. Diplomats and correspondents very fast. Traditional media, social share a lot of similarities. Both are media, 24-hour Television shows a At the same time, I humbly close observers and participants of lot of breaking news. It really means request the media here to report on the global and domestic big events. information explosion, and freedom China-India relations in a more Both are pioneers of advanced social of speech in India. balanced way. I also wish the media philosophy. Both have strong sense to cover more and more news related of social responsibility. Let’s work Secondly, the Media covers not to China. Now China’s parliament together to make the world brighter, only many domestic events, but also NPC and CPPCC are in session. to make China-India relations better foreign affairs news. It shows India is Premier Li Keqiang delivered a and to make our lives as colorful as such an open society, integrated government work report. Last year the Holi. deeply with the world. China’s economy has registered a slower but stable performance. The Thank you all and enjoy the Thirdly, India media pays more economic growth scored 6.7% and evening. attention to China and China-India the GDP totaled 11 trillion USD and REMARKS BY H.E. AMBASSADOR LUO ZHAOHUI ON THE SCREENING OF “KUNG-FU-YOGA” (Sirifort Auditorium, March 16, 2017)

Mrs. Namrata S. Kumar, Deputy in China, many people especially before Chinese monk Xuanzang to Director General of ICCR, young people practice it, and many India. Budhidharma meditated for 9 Yoga institutes, associations are years at Shaolin Temple, and created Mr. Senthil Rajan, Director of DFF, established. This is one example of Shaolin Kung Fu. This is another people-to-people interaction example for people to people Ladies and Gentlemen, between our two countries. interaction between our two counties. Namaste. In China there are many schools of Kung Fu. The most famous Today we will watch the movie As we all know, Yoga is not only school named Shaolin Kung Fu is Kung Fu Yoga, co-produced by the a physical practice, but also a way to believed to be originated from India. artists from China and India. It is a purify our soul. It is an Indian T h e I n d i a n G r e a t M o n k perfect combination of two unique cultural heritage with global Budhidharma traveled to China in cultural symbols. In China, it has influence. Today Yoga is so popular early 6th century, just 200 years attracted a lot of fans and the box

News From China l March 2017 45 Belt and Road Initiative

office has reached more than 200 A few months ago, I visited the our times. We welcome more and million USD. I wish you will enjoy it. Ajanta caves. The architecture, more people to visit each others fresco and sculptures reminded me countries. Both India and China are of the Dunhuang Caves in China. countries with a long history of We should not forget the many Last but not least, I would like to civilization. Our cultures not only people including Budhidharma and thank ICCR and DFF for co-hosting developed independently but also Xuanzang, for their historic today’s event with us. I would also interacted very closely for centuries. contribution to the development of like to thank Kung Fu Star Jackie We have learned a lot from each cultural exchanges. We should build Chan and Bollywood Star Sonu Sood other. Along with the spread of on their legacy. for their video messages. Of course I Buddhism, the exchanges in religion, appreciate everyone present here for culture, trade and education More than 1 million people sharing with us the beautiful evening. flourished along the silk road and traveled across the two countries last through land and oceans. year. They are the friendly envoys of Thank you.

Belt and Road Initiative CHINESE LEADERS DISCUSS ECONOMY, BELT & ROAD WITH LAWMAKERS

Beijing, March 9 (Xinhua) — Initiative, people’s congress system, They joined deputies to the Premier Li Keqiang and other poverty alleviation, anti-corruption National People’s Congress (NPC) leaders on Thursday discussed campaign and other topics with in separate panel discussions at the economic upgrading, Belt and Road national lawmakers. NPC annual session.

46 News From China l March 2017 Belt and Road Initiative

Joining NPC deputies from governance under the Party’s mobilization of all resources to win Shaanxi Province, Premier Li called leadership. the battle against poverty. for developing high-end equipment manufacturing, infor mation He called for innovation in Wang Qishan, secretary of the industry, modern logistics and rural theory and practice of the people’s CPC Central Commission for e-commerce. Tourism and culture congress system, which is China’s Discipline Inspection, joined NPC should also be boosted to create fundamental political system. deputies from Yunnan Province, more jobs. calling for advancing the anti- Yu Zhengsheng, chairman of corruption campaign, which accords The provincial government the Chinese People’s Political with the aspirations of the Party and s h o u l d f u r t h e r s t r e a m l i n e Consultative Conference National the people. administration, delegate power to Committee, joined NPC deputies lower levels, improve services, play from Guizhou Province in a panel Calling inspections a kind of well the province’s role as a key discussion. “political checkup,” Wang said junction in implementing the Belt undesirable working styles including and Road Initiative, and take a lead in Yu urged the province to formalism and bureaucratism during the development of China’s western c o n t i n u e o p t i m i z i n g t h e the implementation of CPC Central region. environment for developing private Committee decisions must be rooted businesses, invigorating the private out. Joining lawmakers from Jiangsu economy, and supporting private Province, Zhang Dejiang, chairman businesses’ efforts to speed up Senior officials at key positions of the NPC Standing Committee, transformation and upgrading. must guard against perfunctory said people’s congresses at various working style and endeavor in a levels should implement the Yu also highlighted targeted pragmatic way to live up to the decisions made by the Communist poverty alleviation, stressing more people’s expectations, he said. Party of China (CPC) Central effective measures, enhanced Committee to ensure effective state implementation of policies and Joining lawmakers from

News From China l March 2017 47 Belt and Road Initiative

Chongqing Municipality, Vice He also urged Chongqing to Li Keqiang, Zhang Dejiang, Yu Premier Zhang Gaoli highlighted the push forward the supply-side Zhengsheng, Wang Qishan and city’s role as a strategic pivot in str uctural refor m, promote Zhang Gaoli are all members of the China’s “Go West” strategy and innovation-driven development and Standing Committee of the Political asked the municipal government to high-end manufacturing, coordinate Bureau of the CPC Central actively fit into the Belt and Road rural and urban development, and Committee. Initiative and the Yangtze River protect the Three Gorges Reservoir Economic Belt. and the Yangtze River. BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE DRIVES GLOBALIZATION

Beijing, March 10 (Xinhua) — potassium fertilizer produced in Chongqing-Xinjiang-Europe Chongqing in southwest China does Kazakhstan will reach Chongqing Railway by 2020, for domestic not produce any potassium fertilizer on its return from Germany,” said distribution and delivery to Japan itself, but it will become a sales hub the city’s economy and information and Southeast Asia. for it thanks to rail routes linking the technology commission. city to Europe. “The Belt and Road Initiative The city plans to import 3 creates enormous opportunities for “In late March, the first train million tonnes of fertilizer from bilateral economic and trade loaded with 500 tonnes of Kazakhstan each year through the cooperation,” said Zhang Jun, board

48 News From China l March 2017 Belt and Road Initiative

chairman of a potassium company (about 912 billion U.S. dollars) in eastern Jiangsu Province, the in Kazakhstan. 2016, up 0.6 percent from 2015, developer of the 5-square-kilometer according to China’s Ministry of zone. Chongqing had 420 freight Commerce. trains to and from Europe last year. “Chinese enterprises went Chinese businesses helped build g l o b a l a n d b o o s t e d l o c a l The city has been one of the 56 economic and trade cooperation development in countries along the most active provincial-level regions zones in 20 countries along the Belt and Road on a win-win basis,” to implement the China-proposed routes with a combined investment said Liu Zhibiao, a national political initiative aimed at building a trade surpassing 18.5 billion dollars, advisor and professor in economics and infrastr ucture network generating nearly 1.1 billion dollars at Nanjing University. connecting Asia with Europe and in tax revenue and 180,000 jobs in “The Belt and Road Initiative Africa along ancient Silk Road trade those countries. has become the most popular public routes. goods and the platform for For example, Chinese-operated international cooperation with the Since 2013, the increasingly Sihanoukville Special Economic brightest prospects in the world,” influential initiative has boosted Zone in Cambodia has attracted 102 Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi trade and investment between China companies from China, Japan, the said Wednesday on the sidelines of and countries along the routes and United States and Europe. the annual legislative session. offered a solution to global economic difficulties. “The economic zone served as a More than 20 heads of state and platform for Chinese enterprises to government, over 50 leaders of China’s combined imports and participate in the Belt and Road,” international organizations, over 100 exports with countries along the Belt said Zhou Haijiang, president of ministerial-level officials, as well as and Road topped 6.3 trillion yuan HoDo Group based in China’s over 1,200 delegates from various

News From China l March 2017 49 Belt and Road Initiative countries and regions will participate a g a i n s t n a r r o w - m i n d e d European-American option of in the Belt and Road Forum for protectionism and isolationism,” i n t e g r a t i o n a n d e c o n o m i c international cooperation in May in said Sergei Luzyanin, director of the development in the 1990s, now there Beijing. Far Eastern Studies Institute under is a new option from China.” the Russian Academy of Sciences. “The Belt and Road Initiative is “We only had the Western BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE HELPS SAUDI ARABIA REALIZE “SAUDI VISION 2030” — AMBASSADOR

Beijing, March 14 (Xinhua) — China Turki Bin Mohamed Al-Mady recent interview, referring to the The China-proposed Belt and Road has said. initiative proposed by Chinese Initiative is expected to make President Xi Jinping in 2013 aimed at “creative” contributions to helping “Saudi Arabia attaches great building a trade and infrastructure Saudi Arabia realize its “Saudi Vision importance to China’s Belt and Road network connecting Asia with 2030” plan, Saudi Ambassador to Initiative,” Al-Mady told Xinhua in a Europe and Africa along the ancient

50 News From China l March 2017 Belt and Road Initiative

Silk Road trade routes. During the king’s visit, the two In recent years, with great sides will discuss enhancing complementarity in their industrial “Both countries have great cooperation in areas such as culture, structures and wide common potential, whether in infrastructure economy, trade, technology, security interests in economy and trade, the construction or in financial and defense. They are expected to two countries have furthered innovation,” he added. sign several agreements and cooperation in such fields as energy, m e m o r a n d a o n e d u c a t i o n , trade, investment and infrastructure In a bid to diversify its heavily investment, transfer of technology, construction. oil-dependent economy, Saudi industry and trade. Arabia announced a “Saudi Vision In 2015, China became Saudi 2030” growth strategy last year, “The king’s visit shows that Arabia’s largest trade partner and which includes privatizing some China and Saudi Arabia enjoy a close Saudi Arabia has been China’s state-owned companies. relationship and share broad biggest crude oil supplier and largest common interests,” the ambassador trade partner in West Asia and Africa Saudi King Salman bin said. for years. Abdulaziz Al Saud will pay a state visit to China from Wednesday to “The good relations between The two countries have seen a Saturday after Xi paid a state visit to China and Saudi Arabia are vigorous, sound development of bilateral ties Saudi Arabia in January 2016, fruitful and pragmatic, and are since they established diplomatic during which both nations agreed continuing to move forward,” Al- ties in 1990, the ambassador said, to lift their relations to a Mady said, adding that he believes hailing the China-Saudi Arabia c o m p r e h e n s i v e s t r a t e g i c “the visit will further consolidate the relationship as a paradigm of partnership. fruits both countries have yielded.” bilateral relations.

News From China l March 2017 51 Belt and Road Initiative

“Observing the development “In the past several years, Saudi Al-Mady said he hopes Saudi model of the China-Saudi Arabia Arabia successfully held dialogues Arabia can play a more central and relations in the past 26 years, we’ve between youth delegations from the positive role in promoting the found that bilateral ties have always two countries in Beijing, and it is initiative in the future, so as to enjoyed positive development and trying to cooperate with National strengthen the in-depth integration this is unique,” he said. “We hope Museum of China to hold activities of the initiative and the “Saudi such momentum can be maintained.” to attract more Chinese tourists,” he Vision 2030.” said. “During the king’s visit, the two The ambassador also praised the countries will discuss counter- He said the two countries have “two sessions” — the annual terrorism,” Al-Mady said. “Both also witnessed academic and gatherings of China’s national n a t i o n s h a v e c o m m o n technological cooperation between legislature and political advisory understanding about anti-terrorism universities and exchanges between body — held in Beijing this month. and the elimination of the origin of students. terrorism. They are trustworthy and “It’s a natural thing for us to responsible partners in this area.” “Saudi Arabia is one of the first attach great importance to the ‘two countries that have responded sessions’ since China has become the Besides, the ambassador positively to the (Road and Belt) engine of the global economy and highlighted the importance of initiative,” he said. “In terms of plays a key role in international cooperation in the spheres of strategic location, Saudi Arabia affairs. I expect the meetings will education and culture, saying that “it serves as the central hub connecting achieve fruitful results and thus should be conducted in parallel with three continents — Asia, Africa and benefit China and all other countries bilateral economic and trade Europe, and has been an important in the world.” exchanges.” part of the initiative.” BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE TO BOOST LISTED COMPANIES’ PROFITS

52 News From China l March 2017 Belt and Road Initiative

Beijing March 10 (Xinhua) — dollars., said He. hope of creating a trade and Listed companies are expected to see infrastructure network to connect profits grow this year as the Belt and Additionally, companies in the Asia with Europe and Africa along Road Initiative advances steadily, infrastructure construction sector ancient trade routes. Shanghai Securities News quoted are also expected to increase profits analysts as saying. this year as regional connectivity was The Belt and Road Initiative has highlighted as part of the Belt and won support from over 100 Companies in the infrastructure Road Initiative, according to countries and international construction and energy sectors are Haitong Securities. organizations, with nearly 50 among the first group of listed cooperation agreements signed companies to benefit from the Belt A trans-continental cargo link between governments, said He and Road Initiative this year, said He connecting eastern and central Asia Lifeng, head of the National Xin, analyst with Huatai Securities. with Europe, known as the “China D e ve l o p m e n t a n d Re f o r m Railway Express,” has raised interest Commission, at a press conference Boosted by rising demand for among companies that want to on the sidelines of the annual power equipment along the Belt and transport Chinese products to parliamentary session. Road, energy equipment producer Europe while tapping markets along Tebian Electric Apparatus Stock the Belt and Road routes, and freight To f u r t h e r s t r e n g t h e n Co.(TBEA) made breakthroughs in volume has increased substantially. cooperation, China will host a high- its international business last year level forum on the Belt and Road with newly signed overseas orders The Belt and Road Initiative was Initiative in Beijing in May. totaling more than 3 billion U.S. proposed by China in 2013 in the

CHINA’S BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE PROMOTES CONNECTIVITY, DEVELOPMENT ALONG ANCIENT ROUTE

Beijing Jan. 2 (Xinhua) — More One day in golden October in Arab Emirates and other countries, than three years ago, Chinese Kashgar of China’s Xinjiang Uygur marking the Gwadar port’s first President Xi Jinping proposed to Autonomous Region, a fleet of 50 export of containers to overseas build the Silk Road Economic Belt trucks of a joint trade convoy destinations, and showing that the and the 21st-Century Maritime Silk carrying large containers started to port has restored the designed Road. roll along the China-Pakistan handling capacity. Economic Corridor (CPEC). Looking back at 2016, the Belt Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz and Road Initiative has gained After passing the Pamirs, Sharif said that CPEC is destined to fruitful early achievements, crossing the Har goolun Range, and transform the entire country and promoting connectivity and opening threading Pakistan’s western region, open up a world of possibilities for up possibilities and potentials for the fleet finally arrived at its not just Pakistan but also Central development along the ancient trade destination — the Gwadar Port of Asian states. route. Pakistan, concluding its 3,115-km journey in a month. In February 2016, China SILK ROAD ECONOMIC Railway Tunnel Group completed BELT STRINGS ROADS The containers carried by the building the Qamchiq Tunnel in TOGETHER fleet were shipped to the United Uzbekistan, the longest tunnel in

News From China l March 2017 53 Belt and Road Initiative

Central Asia. It is part of the 169-km China have been burgeoning. By SILK ROAD CONNECTS Angren-Pap railway line, a major June 2016, trains had been running ROADS AND PORTS state project. After completion of nearly 2,000 times between China the rail line, Uzbekistan’s domestic and Europe, with a total of import In October 2016, the contract transport will no longer have to go and export value of 17 billion U.S. for the second phase of the China- through foreign territories. dollars. Laos railway project was signed in Lao capital of Vientiane. “If we say 2013 is the year of Many other projects are also proposal, 2014 is the year of under way. The China-Belarus Kicked off in late 2015, the guideline, 2015 is the year of top- industrial park is in development, the construction of the project is level design, then 2016 is the year of Hungary-Serbia railroad is to be expected to be completed in five implementing landmark projects of constructed by the Chinese side years. Upon completion of the the Belt and Road Initiative,” said soon, cooperation between China railway, a trip from Vientiane to the Zhao Lei, a professor at China’s and Central and Eastern European Chinese border will take only four Central Party School. “Many countries has been further hours, turning Laos from a European countries have high expanded. landlocked country into a land- approval rates on the Belt and Road linked nation. Initiative.” The Silk Road Economic Belt, On Jan. 21, 2016, at the ground- with a nature of inclusiveness and breaking ceremony of the Jakarta- Perhaps the busy-running openness, has become a vital link Bandung high-speed railway, China-Europe trains give the best connecting regional development Indonesian President Joko Widodo illustration to people’s acceptance. and China’s transformation. launched the country’s first ever Since the Belt and Road proposal, high-speed railway project in Walini, trains running between Europe and 21ST CENTURY MARITIME West Java Province.

54 News From China l March 2017 Belt and Road Initiative

With a maximum design speed the China-Europe Land-Sea industrial park and a deep-sea port in of 350 km per hour, the travel time Express Line. the Kyaukpyu Special Economic between Jakarta and Bandung will be Zone in Rakhine State, which will cut from over three hours to less A c c o r d i n g t o C h i n e s e improve the country’s infrastructure, than one hour once the project is ambassador to Greece Zou Xiaoli, local people’s employment and finished. Piraeus was not merely an economic livelihood. project, but also a bridge to connect The Belt and Road Initiative the peoples of Greece and China. In Sri Lanka, the green light has provides opportunities not only for a been given to the delayed Colombo new round of China’s opening-up, In Africa, the Chinese-built Port City. Through the Maritime Silk but also for the growth of world Ethiopia-Djibouti railway has Road, China will support the country economy. officially opened service, marking a in becoming a shipping, logistics and milestone in cooperation between even financial hub in the Indian On Aug. 10, 2016, Chinese China, Ethiopia and Djibouti. Ocean. shipping giant COSCO acquired 67 percent stake of Piraeus Port In Cambodia, the Sihanoukville A CHINESE MATTER, ALSO A Authority through the Athens Stock Special Economic Zone has WORLD MATTER Exchange, officially becoming the attracted hundreds of enterprises, controlling shareholder of the providing a model of China- It has been nearly two years Greek port. Cambodia cooperation under the since the Chinese-owned company Belt and Road Initiative. Southeast Asia Telecommunications Piraeus is expected to operate as entered the Cambodian market. a hub in Europe for the 21st Century In Myanmar, a consortium of With an investment of 150 million Maritime Silk Road, and to connect six foreign companies led by China’s U.S. dollars, a fiber network the Silk Road Economic Belt with CITIC has won two bids to build an extending 10,000 km, and over 1,000

News From China l March 2017 55 Belt and Road Initiative

base stations, the company has geographically closer, then the “soft Road Institute at the Center for improved the efficiency of connection” brings people together. China and Globalization think tank, communications in Cambodia, and a g r e e n S i l k R o a d u r g e s was spoken highly of by Cambodian Till now, over 100 countries and environmental protection and Prime Minister Hun Sen. international organizations have intensive cultivation for sustained expressed willingness to actively development. Apart from opening up a new support and join the initiative, 40 of market in Cambodia with the which have signed cooperation deals A healthy Silk Road means dedication to high-speed Internet with China. closer cooperation in medical care and high-quality phone calls, the and health among related countries. company is also shouldering social In 2017, a Belt and Road summit An intelligent Silk Road calls for responsibility by launching the will be held to further map out the people cultivation and exchanges. A Youth Sci-Tech Education Base and blueprint of the initiative, explore peaceful Silk Road aims at the Cloud Data Center. business opportunities and deepen i m p l e m e n t i n g a c o m m o n , alignment of development strategies comprehensive, cooperative and “Previously, people saw most between China and the relevant sustainable security concept in Asia, ‘Belt and Road’ programs in areas parties. then promoting world peace and such as energy and infrastructure. In stability, Huang added. 2016, cooperation between China On June 22, 2016, during a and those countries along the routes speech at the Legislative Chamber While addressing the Uzbek have been expanded to education, of the Uzbek Supreme Assembly in Parliament, Xi invited other c u l t u r e, m e d i c a l c a r e a n d Tashkent, Xi called for building a countries to attend the 2017 Belt and telecommunications,” said Zhao of green, healthy, intelligent and Road summit. The summit will not the Central Party School peaceful Silk Road, laying out the only look back at the fruitful harvest future of the initiative. made so far under the initiative, but If the “hard connection” of the According to Huang Rihan, also set up a new starting point for Belt and Road draws countries Executive Director of the Belt and the future, observers said.

56 News From China l March 2017 Indians in China

“The Belt and Road Initiative “The agreement reached in not just China, but also countries will not be a flash in the pan, nor will November by the UN General along the routes and the world at it be formalism,” said Zhao, “China Assembly to further promote the large,” said Wang Yiwei, a professor will go deep with the initiative and Belt and Road Initiative worldwide at Renmin University of China. turn it into real benefits.” shows that its construction involves

Indians in China DELEGATION FROM UNIVERSITY OF DELHI VISITED CHINA by Salvi Singla

OBJECTIVE perspective. China and India are the relationship. two most populous countries and The objective of this delegation to fastest growing major economies in lBeijing Foreign Studies china was to understand the bi – the world. Growth in diplomatic and University, interacted with lateral relations of India and China economic influence has increased the students from Journalism and to understand china from their the significance of their bilateral College

News From China l March 2017 57 Indians in China

After a lavish lunch, we headed (China Radio International) lVisit Great Wall to Beijing Foreign Studies CRI which was established in University (BFSU). BFSU has 1941 and currently it broadcasts After 2 days of interactive been there for more than 70 in 65 languages through radio sessions we got a chance to years and in 2014 , they ,television, internet and mobile explore the rich heritage of i n t r o d u c e d S c h o o l o f phones. They have been china on day 3 at Beijing .Out of International Journalism and broadcasting in Hindi language the seven wonders in the world , Communication (SIJC). We got since 1959, everyday on short The Great Wall of China is one an opportunity to interact with wave in the morning and of the greatest sights in the graduate journalism students evening.. We got an opportunity world — the longest wall in the and we talked about campus to meet the Director ,South world, an awe-inspiring feat of media, internships, curriculum Asian Division of CRI ,where ancient defensive architecture. and video products. 107 we discussed about the role of Its winding path over rugged Investigation is a Chinese media in development and country and steep mountains newspaper published by the education and how radio can be takes in some great scenery ,with students featuring in-depth used a medium to strengthen the facility of cable car .The reporting along with First Indo-Sino relations. We also met Great Wall of China is an Mover, an english newspaper two Indian Hindi service amazing work of mankind all focusing on national and world foreign correspondents, Mr. the time. This wall showcases news. Anil Pandey and Mr. Akhil Chinese expertise, their strength Parashar who gave us an insight and hardwork. This wall has lVisit China Radio about the type of programmes attracted many tourists from all International ranging from Chinese-Hindi over the world, every year language learning to special thousands of people from all Day 2 began with a visit to CRI programmes on Indian festivals. age of life young and old, comes

58 News From China l March 2017 Indians in China

News From China l March 2017 59 Indians in China

to China to see The Great Wall covering the passage from Guangzhou with speed of of China. The original wall was North gate to the South gate. 300km/h. The train presented built in Qin dynasty 2000 years the best example of commuting ago and later separate walls built lVisited National big data from one place to another with by other kingdoms were linked center the help of science and together. There are various parts technolog y. It was well of the wall, we visited Mutianyu Exploring the Guiyang ,we first furnished with comfortable 90km northeast of Beijing, went to National Big Data seat, leg room, plugpoints for famed for its Ming-era guard Center , which is the largest hub charging etc. towers and excellent view. We of collecting and analyzing data travelled in a cable car instead of We can explore big data sharing, lV i s i t e d G u a n g z h o u toboggan ride/hiking to see data center integration, the University, interact with the China’s greatest man-made whole industry agglomeration, students wonder made with efforts of besides big data flow and hundreds of thousands of dissemination he habitat is fully We had a wonderful exchange workers. functional – the cloud service meeting with Guangzhou platforms, open data resources university students. The lVisited the Forbidden City and a wide range of big data university is fully committed to and Palace Museum industry clusters . consolidating and expanding its underg raduate prog ram, Forbidden City, also known as lHigh Speed Railway(D211) to g raduate prog rams and the Palace Museum, and Gu Guangzhou international students program. Gong in Chinese, and once We Exchanged our views on served as the imperial palace for To our last stage of China new media and old media talked 24 emperors during the Ming d e l e g a t i o n , a r r iv i n g a t about the changing phase of and Qing Dynasties (1368 - Guangzhou through High journalism from old media to 1911). It is well known for its Speed Train covering a distance new media . high walls and architecture of 857 km from Guiyang to

60 News From China l March 2017 Culture & Life Culture & Life PEOPLE VIEW PINWHEEL DECORATION IN NE CHINA'S LIAONING

People take photos with the pinwheel decoration in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, March 11, 2017. (Xinhua/Ding Hongfa)

People view the pinwheel decoration in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, March 11, 2017. (Xinhua/Ding Hongfa)

News From China l March 2017 61 Culture & Life

People view the pinwheel decoration in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, March 11, 2017. (Xinhua/Ding Hongfa)

People view the pinwheel decoration in Dalian, northeast China's Liaoning Province, March 11, 2017. (Xinhua/Ding Hongfa)

62 News From China l March 2017 Culture & Life SCENERY OF ANCIENT VILLAGE IN YIXIAN COUNTY, EAST CHINA

A villager works at a cole flower field in Yixian County of Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Duan)

Tourists visit Yuezhao, or Moon Pool, at Hongcun, an ancient village in Yixian County of Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Duan)

News From China l March 2017 63 Culture & Life

A tourist takes photos at Hongcun, an ancient village in Yixian County of Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Duan)

Ducks swim in a stream in Yixian County of Huangshan City, east China's Anhui Province, March 15, 2017. (Xinhua/Zhang Duan)

64 News From China l March 2017 Culture & Life "KUNG-FU YOGA" TOPS CHINESE BOX OFFICE

Beijing, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) — “Journey to the West: The Demons yuan. “Kung-Fu Yoga,” a domestic Strike Back” landed in second place “Buddies in India,” a domestic comedy featuring Hong Kong action for the week, taking 822 million comedy, sat at fourth place for the star Jackie Chan, ruled the Chinese yuan. It has grossed 1.4 billion yuan week, generating 360 million yuan. box office in the week ending Feb. 5, since its release on Jan. 28. Rounding out the top five was earning 963 million yuan (140 “Duckweed,” a domestic domestic animation “Boonie Bears: million U.S. dollars), China Film adventure film directed by writer Entangled Worlds,” which grossed News reported Tuesday. Han Han, placed third in the week 266 million yuan in the week. Domestic fantasy movie with sales revenue of 503 million

News From China l March 2017 65 Tibet Today Tibet Today LHASA TOPS CHINA'S HAPPIEST CITIES IN 2016: CCTV POLL

Lhasa, capital of southwest 4. Yinchuan, Ningxia Hui Big data analysis reveals that China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, Autonomous Region 70% of Lhasa citizens felt ‘extremely led China’s 2016 Happiest Cities list, 5. Tianjin, Municipality happy’ in the past year, whose main according to big data analysis and a 6. Hefei, Anhui Province concerns with the family (62.12%), survey polling more than 100,000 7. Changsha, Hunan province marriage or emotional life (52.31%), families conducted by China Central 8. Wuhan, Hubei province and health conditions (46.92%). Television (CCTV). 9. Haikou, Hainan province Income factor was given by only 10. Shijiazhuang, Hebei 36.15% of the respondents, while Last year, China’s top 10 cities province professional achievement is are as follows: reportedly of minor influence. The cities were ranked based on 1. Lhasa, Tibet Autonomous several indicators, including family, Nationally, the top 3 happiness Region marriage or emotional life, health indexes are health conditions 2. Chengdu, Sichuan province conditions, social security, income, (54.19%), family (47.79%), and 3. Changchun, Jilin province environment, education, etc. income (43.81%), the survey says.

66 News From China l March 2017 Tibet Today

News From China l March 2017 67 Tibet Today

TIBET'S 2ND LARGEST AIRPORT TERMINAL STARTS OPERATION

68 News From China l March 2017 Tibet Today

The second-largest airport terminal in southwest China’s Tibet autonomous region started operation Monday.

The new terminal, the sixth to open in Tibet, is located at Nyingchi Mainling Airport. It covers an area of 10,300 square meters and will be able to handle 750,000 passengers and 3,000 tonnes of cargo throughput annually by 2020.

The Nyingchi airport will open new air routes to Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, resume routes to Beijing and increase more round trip flights to Lhasa, Guangzhou, Kunming, Chongqing and Shenzhen after the since it was put into service in 2006. Nyingchi is located in southeast new terminal comes into service, Passenger volume hit 390,000 in Tibet at an average elevation of said Liu Wei, deputy director of Civil 2016, bringing the total passenger 2,950 meters above sea level. The Aviation Administration of China in number to 2 million in past years, Liu city has attracted more visitors in Tibet. said, adding that the new terminal recent years thanks to tourist will effectively alleviate pressure attractions such as its peach blossom The airport has seen year-on- brought by the growing number of festival. year increases in passenger flow passengers. TIBET TO SPEND BIG ON FIGHTING POVERTY

News From China l March 2017 69 Tibet Today

Lhasa — The government of S o u t h w e s t C h i n a ’s T i b e t autonomous region plans to allocate 30 billion yuan ($4.3 billion) in 2017 to improve the lives of local residents.

According to the regional finance department on Thursday, nearly half of the funds will be channeled to eradicate poverty and subsidize residents in border areas.

About 6 billion yuan will be used to boost development in border areas and residents in border areas will see their living subsidies rise to up to 2,700 yuan. The rest of the funds will also be improve people’s livelihood, leading Additionally, the standards for used to improve financial aid in areas the country in providing 15 years of the minimum living allowance for such as education, medical care, and free education, collective support of urban and rural residents in the social insurance. poor senior citizens and orphans, region have been raised to 700 yuan and full and equal coverage of and 3,311 yuan a month, Over the past four years, the endowment insurance in urban and respectively, said Jiang Guojie, regional government has earmarked rural areas, Jiang said. deputy head of the department. over 70 percent of its revenue to

70 News From China l March 2017 Tibet Today TIBET TO OPEN WORLD'S HIGHEST SUPER-LONG TUNNEL

The Mila Mount Tunnel on the Construction of the tunnel workers. Lhasa-Nyingchi Highway is started in April 2015, and the project In order to overcome such expected to be opened in is about 70 percent complete to date, difficulties, there are 15 oxygenators, September, when it will become the it said, adding that, hampered by the an oxygen tank and five boilers on world’s highest super-long tunnel. natural environment at high attitude, the project site, he added. The tunnel is located at the the construction process has encountered many obstacles. After it opens, traveling time junction of Lhasa and Nyingchi in between the cities of Lhasa and the Tibet autonomous region at an “With a lack of oxygen and Nyingchi will be halved, Wang said. average altitude of 4,740 meters temperature lows of - 30 Celsius in above sea level, according to the Mila winter, we require highly skilled “Driving from Lhasa to M o u n t T u n n e l P r o j e c t workers,” said Wang Liang, chief Nyingchi will take just three to four Headquarters. e n g i n e e r o f t h e p r o j e c t hours instead of about eight, and it will be much safer,” Wang said. As a key section of the Lhasa- headquarters. Nyingchi Highway on the National Wang said many workers “It will also have a positive Highway 318, the two lanes of the suffered from attitude sickness impact on the social and economic tunnel are 5,727 meters and 5,720 during the tunnel’s construction, and development of these places, and it meters long respectively, according that much time and effort has been will make life much more convenient to the project headquarters. spent on recruiting qualified for local ethnic groups.”

News From China l March 2017 71 Book Review

BOOK REVIEW Natural Wonders in China China is located in east Eurasia and on the Pacific west coast, covering 9.6 million sq. km of land and 3 million sq. km of sea. It stretches across four time zones east to west and covers 5,500 km north to south, while the elevation gap between its highest peak and lowest point reaches nearly 9,000 meters. The great geographical differences and contrasts have made this land both dynamic and magnificent. There are snow-capped mountains, glaciers, evergreen rain forests, desolate gobis and deserts, vibrant lakes and coasts, spectacular valleys and waterfalls, and boundless grasslands and wetlands. In China, almost all types of natural scenery that exist in the world can be found, and this book intends to help you learn something about its beauty.

We hope you will find this book useful. Please email us first to reserve the book providing the serial No. Hope to hear from you in the coming future. Your comments and suggestions on NFC are also greatly welcome. Editor News From China E-mail: [email protected] Address: 50-D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi-110021 Tel: 0091-11-26116683

72 News From China l March 2017 Flights Between China and India FLIGHTS BETWEEN CHINA AND INDIA

ROUTING FLIGHT NO. DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FLIGHT DATES

New Delhi-Guangzhou CZ3028 12:45 19:50 Daily

Guangzhou - NewDelhi CZ3027 7:30 11:30 Daily

New Delhi-Guangzhou CZ360 23:40 6:50+1 Daily

Guangzhou - NewDelhi CZ359 18:50 22:30 Daily

Schedule of China Southern Airlines Flights (Summer Season)

ROUTING FLIGHT NO. DEPARTURE TIME ARRIVAL TIME FLIGHT DATES

New Delhi-Guangzhou CZ3028 11:50 19:30 Daily

Guangzhou - NewDelhi CZ3027 7:30 11:50 Daily

New Delhi-Guangzhou CZ360 23:10 6:50+1 Daily

Guangzhou - NewDelhi CZ359 18:50 22:10 Daily

China Eastern Time Table

ROUTING Flight Number Dep. Arr. Frequency Aircraft Remarks

Delhi-Shanghai(Pudong) MU564 0230 1100 Daily Airbus 330-200

Shanghai(Pudong)-Delhi Flight Number Dep Arr Frequency Aircraft Shanghai MU563 2110 0125+1 Daily Airbus Pudong: 330-200 Terminal-1

Kolkata-Kunming Flight Number Dep Arr Frequency Aircraft Delhi IGI: Terminal-3 MU556 0035 0510 Daily Boeing 737 Kolkata NSCBI: Kunming-Kolkata Flight Number Dep Arr Frequency Aircraft Terminal-2

MU555 2355 2345 Daily Boeing 737

News From China l March 2017 73 Flights Between China and India

CA 429

BOM-PEK CA 890 0230 1120 MON/WED/FRI/ MON/WED/FRI/ MON/WED/FRI/ SUN SUN SUN

PEK-BOM CA 889 1940 0100+1 TUE/THUR/SAT/ TUE/THUR/SAT/ TUE/THUR/SAT/ SUN SUN SUN

Address and Contact Numbers of Chinese Airlines

74 News From China l March 2017 75 76 Postal Regd. No. DL-SW-16/4034/15-17 R.N.I. No. 47440/88 March 2017

Kung Fu Yoga

Published, Printed and Edited by Press Counsellor Ms. Xie Liyan on behalf of the Press Office of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, 50-D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi-110021. Tel: 26881249, Fax: 26882024 Printed at A.K. Printers, S-217, Bank Street, Munirka, New Delhi-110067, Ph: 9818114996 Date of Publishing: 24th of every month Posted at Chanakyapuri P.O. on 27th & 28th of every month Chinese Embassy Website: http://in.china-embassy.org E-mail: [email protected] Website of Foreign Ministry of China: www.mfa.gov.cn E-mail:[email protected] www.fmprc.gov.cn

PDF Version of this Issue is available at http://in.china-embassy.org