Image Credit: CGTN
China’s Premier Li Qiang has underscored the need for the gradual implementation of retirement age reforms, describing it as crucial for advancing the nation’s modernisation goals. During a State Council meeting held on Thursday, Li highlighted that the reform seeks to address China’s aging population while promoting high-quality population growth and fully unleashing talent dividends.
Li, who is also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC), stated that the reform represents a necessary step towards improving the social security system and enhancing people’s livelihoods. The delayed retirement policy, according to the premier, should be implemented with voluntary participation, reflecting employees’ preferences.
The meeting, attended by senior officials including Ding Xuexiang, Vice Premier of the State Council, and State Councilors Wu Zhenglong and Shen Yiqin, focused on mobilising efforts for the reform. Li emphasised the importance of promptly formulating supportive policies and ensuring their alignment with the overall reform plan.
Additionally, Li called for expanding employment opportunities, particularly for college graduates and young people, as a key measure supporting the reform’s progress. He urged authorities to ensure that workers’ rights and interests are protected in the process.
Efforts to enhance old-age security were also prioritised, with Li noting the need to raise basic pensions for both urban and rural residents, alongside retirees. National coordination of pension insurance policies would be strengthened to ensure comprehensive coverage.
The meeting stressed the necessity of timely implementation and refinement of employment and pension-related policies, signalling the Chinese government’s commitment to a balanced and flexible approach in carrying out the retirement age reform.