China's leadership convenes symposium to seek input on economic activities
The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) convened a symposium featuring non-CPC individuals to gather their insights and recommendations regarding the current economic landscape and the economic initiatives planned for 2025.
On December 6, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting, during which he delivered a significant speech.
Highlighting that 2025 marks the conclusion of the country's 14th Five-Year Plan, Xi emphasized the need for macroeconomic policies that are both proactive and effective. He advocated for measures to enhance domestic demand, foster the integrated development of technological and industrial innovation, stabilize the property and stock markets, and tackle risks in crucial areas as well as external shocks.
Through these initiatives, Xi stated, it is essential to maintain steady expectations and unleash greater vitality to support the ongoing upward trajectory of the economy.
He stressed the importance of achieving the objectives of the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality while laying a robust foundation for the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan.
The symposium was attended by key members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, including Li Qiang, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, and Ding Xuexiang. Li Qiang, appointed by the CPC Central Committee, provided an overview of this year’s economic tasks and outlined considerations for 2025.
Participants included chairpersons from the central committees of eight non-CPC parties, the chairperson of the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and a representative of unaffiliated individuals. They expressed agreement with the CPC Central Committee's analysis of the current economic situation and its plans for 2025’s economic work while also providing recommendations on accelerating the development of new quality productive forces and enhancing macroeconomic regulation.
After considering their feedback, Xi remarked that these opinions and suggestions would be thoroughly evaluated.
Despite a challenging international and domestic environment, Xi noted that the Chinese economy has shown generally stable performance this year, making progress alongside stability. He indicated that the key tasks and targets for economic and social development are expected to be successfully completed this year, marking significant advancements in Chinese modernization.
Acknowledging the contributions of non-CPC individuals to the CPC Central Committee's decision-making and policy implementation, Xi underscored the importance of bolstering confidence in the prospects for next year’s economic efforts.
He affirmed that China's economy is built on a solid foundation characterized by many advantages, strong resilience, and substantial potential, with supportive conditions and a fundamental long-term development trend remaining intact.
Xi called for maintaining a strategic focus, proactively creating a favorable external environment, managing domestic affairs effectively, and translating positive factors into tangible developmental achievements.
Recognizing the various uncertainties and challenges confronting China’s development, Xi urged comprehensive preparations to meet the goals of economic and social growth next year through persistent efforts, with an aim of forging new avenues for the country’s progress.
He expressed his hope that all non-CPC parties, the ACFIC, and unaffiliated individuals would assist the Party and government in economic endeavors, contribute to the CPC Central Committee's decision-making processes, and enhance their capabilities for participating in and deliberating on state affairs.
Aarav Patel contributed to this report for TROIB News