By Si Thu Tun
China’s annual Two Sessions are currently taking place in Beijing. The sessions are attended by representatives from different fields from all over China gathering to discuss economic and social affairs and approve new laws or amendments.
The Two Sessions, very similar to the new parliamentary sessions in some countries, comprises two major gatherings; the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). These two sessions used to be held separately between 1949 to 1959. But the meetings have been held at the same time since March 1959. According to the Constitution of China, NPC is the highest organ of state power of the People’s Republic of China and CPPCC is an important institution of multiparty cooperation and political consultation led by the Communist Party of China (CPC). It is an important way to promote socialist democracy in China’s political activities.
Foreign media representatives are also invited to cover the Two Sessions every year. “I understand that China invites foreign media to let the world know the ongoing process and plans of China in a timely manner,” said Mr. Hlaing Win, Chief Editor of Democracy Today News based in Myanmar.
“I could see foreign journalists reporting news immediately at this year’s Two Sessions. It’s good for both sides. As for China, they can share their achievements and future plans. For people outside China like Myanmar, they can know more about China in a timely manner,” he added.
Since adopting the reform and opening-up policy in 1978, China has been practicing market economy with Chinese characteristics. China has achieved some great accomplishments over the past 40 years since launching the reform and opening-up policy.
In this year’s two sessions, the new Foreign Investment Law which was proposed last year, is expected to be passed. According to the law, China is believed to have a plan to continue the reform and opening-up policy under the new leadership. At the end of 2018, there were around 100,000 startup businesses and entrepreneurial firms in China.
“To develop economy, not only local investors but also foreign investors are needed. Foreign investors may look if the relevant country has the necessary requirements for investoment. I believe that China has established numerous joint ventures with foreign direct investment during 40 years of reform and opening-up. That’s why China develops very quickly, I think,” said Mr. Hlaing Win.
Peer to peer cooperation between China and Myanmar is also developing.
Cooperation between the CPC and Myanmar’s current ruling party has witnessed a considerable progress. According to Mr. Aye Kyu, Chief Editor of D-Wave journal and Central Committee member of current ruling NLD party, many delegations from NLD party visit China very often to study China’s development.
“Relations between China and Myanmar date back over a thousand years, just like the border between China and Myanmar that stretches over 2,000 kilometers,” said Mr. Aye Kyu.
“An important characteristic between China and Myanmar is that China assists Myanmar government effort to spread peace in the country, which provides a good chance to improve relations between the two countries,” he added.
China Report ASEAN 