China's Two Sessions and Trade Talks Unfold

The article discusses China's 'Two Sessions', a major political gathering that includes the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the National People's Congress (NPC). The NPC is China's rubber-stamp national legislature that approves decisions made by the Communist Party. The article explains the significance of the Two Sessions, the key players involved, and what to expect from this year's gathering, including the Government Work Report and the approval of the next Five Year Plan. The article also highlights the importance of understanding China's priorities and policies, particularly in the context of its growing global influence and recent purges of high-level military officials.

China and the US are set to hold high-level trade talks in Paris, led by Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to China. The talks will focus on trade and investment deals, including tariffs, soybeans, and rare earths. This meeting is the sixth round of trade negotiations between the two countries since Trump launched a tariff war in April last year. The US Supreme Court's recent ruling striking down 20% tariffs on Chinese products has introduced uncertainty into the tariff landscape.

China's annual Two Sessions meetings are taking place in Beijing, where thousands of delegates from across mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau gather to ratify legislation, personnel changes, and the budget. The meetings involve the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). This year's event is significant due to the release of the 15th five-year plan, which focuses on boosting domestic demand and developing cutting-edge technologies. The meetings also coincide with a major shakeup in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) following a purge of top military officials.