The Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) wrapped up its 13th session in Beijing on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in China's legislative agenda.
During the closing meeting, lawmakers made pivotal decisions, including the adoption of a new value-added tax law, amendments to the Supervision Law, and a revised Science and Technology Popularization Law. These changes are expected to shape China's economic and technological landscape in the coming years.
A notable leadership shift occurred as Wang Guanghua was removed from his position as Minister of Natural Resources, with Guan Zhi'ou stepping into the role. This move signals a strategic realignment within the ministry to better address emerging environmental and resource management challenges.
President Xi Jinping endorsed four presidential orders, officially promulgating the newly adopted laws and decisions. Zhao Leji, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, presided over the closing meeting and played a key role in guiding the session's outcomes.
The committee also decided to submit a draft amendment to the Law on Deputies to the National People's Congress and Local People's Congresses at All Levels for further deliberation in the third session of the 14th NPC, scheduled to open on March 5, 2025. Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, was entrusted with making explanatory remarks during the upcoming session.
In international relations, lawmakers ratified extradition treaties with Zimbabwe and Suriname, strengthening China's legal cooperation with these nations. Additionally, the committee approved the member list for the sixth-term Macao Special Administrative Region Basic Law Committee.
Zhao Leji also chaired a meeting of the Council of Chairpersons of the NPC Standing Committee and conducted a lecture for lawmakers, emphasizing the importance of legislative progress and governance. The session concluded with the formal appointment of members to the Macao Basic Law Committee, ensuring continued oversight and development in the region.
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China's top legislature concludes standing committee session
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