For the first time since 1993, China’s Premier Li Qiang will not host a news conference following the conclusion of this year’s National People’s Congress (NPC), annual parliamentary meeting, NPC spokesman Lou Qinjian announced on Monday, March 4.
The press conference, traditionally held after the NPC and broadcast by state media CCTV, has been a regular and institutionalized occurrence, marking a key moment for international media to engage with China’s premier.
During a news conference a day prior to the NPC’s commencement, Lou stated that the premier would no longer provide media briefings at the end of future NPCs.
Additionally, Lou mentioned China’s opposition to any actions that tarnish or attack its business environment through misinterpretation of the country’s counter-espionage law. He also highlighted forthcoming legislation aimed at deepening economic reforms, including the reform of financial institutions, to bolster support for private companies.
