Image Credit: CGTN
The Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) concluded its 11th session on Friday in Beijing, where lawmakers approved several critical decisions, including a revised National Defense Education Law, an amendment to the Statistics Law, and a decision to gradually raise the statutory retirement age. The session, presided over by Zhao Leji, Chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, marked a significant moment in China’s legislative developments as it addressed pressing national and international matters.
Lawmakers voted on multiple measures aimed at enhancing the country’s governance and legal framework. President Xi Jinping signed four presidential orders to promulgate these decisions, including the conferment of national medals and honorary titles in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Additionally, Han Jun was appointed as the new minister of agriculture and rural affairs, replacing Tang Renjian.
Zhao Leji, addressing the closing meeting, emphasised the importance of the decision on raising the retirement age, describing it as a strategic move to optimise human resource utilisation and bolster China’s modernisation efforts through improved population quality. He noted that this change would significantly support high-quality development amid shifting demographic trends.
The revised National Defense Education Law was highlighted as a pivotal step in strengthening national defence education and instilling patriotic values among citizens. Zhao stressed that the amendments provide a robust legal framework to promote awareness and preparedness in defence matters across the nation.
Regarding the amended Statistics Law, Zhao underscored its role in ensuring the authenticity and timeliness of statistical data, which are vital for accurate policy-making. He suggested that the revised law would enhance data integrity and contribute to better governance.
The session also included decisions on international treaties, personnel-related bills, and a deputy qualification report, reflecting the NPC’s broad legislative agenda. Zhao presided over additional meetings with the Council of Chairpersons and conducted a lecture for lawmakers, reinforcing the importance of the newly adopted measures.