Beijing, China – Li Qiang is set to break a decades-long tradition by becoming the first premier in 30 years to forego a press briefing during China’s annual parliamentary meetings. This decision comes as President Xi Jinping tightens his grip over the world’s second-largest economy, leaving investors with fewer opportunities to gain insights into the country’s policy direction.
The announcement that the country’s No. 2 official will not take questions at the close of the National People’s Congress for the remainder of its five-year term was made by official spokesperson Lou Qinjian. This change means that this current cohort of lawmakers will convene annually until 2027.
The absence of a press briefing by Li Qiang represents a significant departure from past practices, where the premier would typically engage with the press to address questions and concerns regarding the nation’s policies and future direction. This move raises concerns among investors and analysts who rely on these briefings to guide their decisions in the Chinese market.
President Xi Jinping’s increasing control over China’s economy and political landscape has been a focal point of discussion among experts and observers. By eliminating the traditional press briefings, Xi Jinping’s administration may be seeking to centralize information dissemination and limit the ability of outside entities to influence the country’s trajectory.
The decision to forgo press briefings may have broader implications for China’s relationship with the global community, as transparency and communication are vital components of fostering trust and understanding. As China continues to assert its position as a key player in the international arena, the shift away from public interactions by top officials could hinder efforts to promote openness and dialogue.
Given China’s significant impact on the global economy, any changes in the country’s communication strategies are likely to have ripple effects worldwide. The lack of access to insights from top Chinese officials could create uncertainty among investors and stakeholders, potentially impacting decisions and investments in the Chinese market. It remains to be seen how this shift in communication approach will shape China’s interactions with the rest of the world in the coming years.