In a bid to safeguard the ecological health of the nation's waterways and strengthen social safety nets, Chinese Premier Li Qiang chaired a State Council executive meeting on Sunday. The session set out a four-point plan covering river and lake protection, child welfare, a draft healthcare security law, and new nuclear power projects.
Safeguarding Rivers and Lakes
Premier Li Qiang praised recent gains in aquatic ecosystems and called for a targeted, scientific, and law-based approach to pollution control. Officials were urged to tackle issues at their source, strengthen monitoring and source-tracing, and rein in excess emissions across rivers and lakes.
Elevating Child Welfare
The meeting stressed 'absolute priority' for children in difficulties, outlining measures to boost their living, medical, educational, and mental health support systems. Authorities were encouraged to maximize developmental benefits and bridge service gaps for the most vulnerable youth.
Advancing Healthcare Security
Delegates reviewed the draft healthcare security law and gave it preliminary approval, with plans to submit it to the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress for deliberation. The new legislation aims to strengthen medical access and financial protections nationwide.
Ensuring Nuclear Power Safety
On the energy front, the council greenlit several nuclear power projects, including a new plant in Sanmen, Zhejiang Province, on the Chinese mainland. Premier Li emphasized absolute safety, calling for construction and operation to meet the highest global standards and for ongoing capacity-building in safety supervision.
This integrated agenda shows how the Chinese mainland is weaving sustainability, social welfare, and energy security into its policy fabric – a blueprint that could resonate with young change-makers worldwide.
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Premier Li chairs meeting on river and lake protection, child welfare
cgtn.com
