Report responds to global challenges: NPC deputies

Local National People’s Congress (NPC) deputies have hailed a government work report unveiled by the country’s leaders, saying it is effective in responding to external challenges. Beijing has set an economic growth target of 4.5 percent to 5 percent for the year. Ronick Chan, a Hong Kong member and lawmaker, said setting a range for the nation’s GDP growth target allows for more flexibility in implementing fiscal and monetary policies. “As we all know, the international situation is complex and ever-changing, and setting a single target may make the country’s policies passive,” Chan said. “Having a range can set a base with the lower limit, while having the upper limit as a goal to work towards.” Fellow NPC deputy Priscilla Leung said the work report – delivered by Premier Li Qiang – not only outlines the direction of developments at home, but also carries “huge international value”. “Under the uncertain international economic and political situation in the world, China has provided a very practical work report together with an international strategic development for humankind,” Leung said. Edited by Priscilla Ng