分类： politics

China is advancing significant legislation designed to fortify ethnic unity and protect the lawful rights of all ethnic groups nationwide. The proposed law on promoting ethnic unity and progress represents a strategic initiative to cultivate a stronger sense of community for the Chinese nation, according to official statements from the National People’s Congress (NPC).

Lou Qinjian, spokesman for the fourth session of the 14th NPC, emphasized that the legislation aligns with the Communist Party of China’s contemporary approach to ethnic affairs. The law reflects what officials describe as an overarching historical trend—marking a transition from traditional practices to modern governance while preserving unity within diversity through formal state legislation.

The legislative process began with the draft law’s initial review by the NPC Standing Committee in September. Following standard parliamentary procedure, the proposal was subsequently published on the NPC’s official website to solicit public feedback and distributed to all NPC deputies for consideration. The draft will undergo formal deliberation during the NPC’s annual session running from March 5 to March 12.

The comprehensive legislation establishes clear overall requirements, fundamental principles, and defines the responsibilities of relevant entities in promoting ethnic unity. It outlines specific measures including building a shared cultural homeland, facilitating cross-ethnic interaction and integration, and promoting mutual prosperity and development among all ethnic groups.

Officials indicate the new law will work in coordination with existing regulations such as the law on regional ethnic autonomy, creating a cohesive legal framework for nationwide ethnic relations. The legislation specifically focuses on developing the community of the Chinese nation while ensuring ethnic regions receive support to accelerate their integration with the country’s broader development objectives.

According to NPC spokespersons, the legislation represents a systematic approach to strengthening institutional mechanisms that foster national unity while safeguarding the rights and interests of citizens from all ethnic backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the cohesion and unity of the Chinese nation.

China’s National People’s Congress Standing Committee has significantly amplified its supervisory functions throughout the past year, implementing comprehensive monitoring systems to advance national development priorities and public welfare initiatives. Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the 14th NPC’s fourth session, detailed these enhanced oversight mechanisms during a Wednesday press briefing, emphasizing their critical role in promoting high-quality growth and environmental sustainability.

The legislative body employed a multi-faceted approach to supervision, incorporating rigorous review processes, specialized investigations, and systematic evaluations of law enforcement. The committee examined 22 supervisory reports, conducted five separate law enforcement inspections, held two special inquiry sessions, and completed 11 thematic research projects alongside issuing one formal resolution. This comprehensive strategy enabled thorough assessment of governmental compliance with constitutional mandates and policy implementations.

Key focus areas included the development of new productive forces, with the committee reviewing progress reports and advocating for practical implementation measures. The oversight extended to state-owned asset management, where the committee established robust accountability frameworks and rectification mechanisms to ensure proper fiduciary stewardship. Environmental governance received particular attention through reviews of climate change mitigation efforts and carbon neutrality initiatives, complemented by inspections of Forest Law enforcement practices.

Food safety regulations underwent meticulous examination to verify comprehensive regulatory compliance, while the committee simultaneously advanced whole-process people’s democracy through enhanced deputy engagement. Over 1,000 legislative representatives participated in 67 distinct research topics related to the forthcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), creating substantial public consultation mechanisms.

The committee implemented a novel supervision identification system through its chairperson’s meeting, which prioritized 23 key recommendations addressing widespread public concerns. Looking forward, the NPC Standing Committee remains committed to strengthening its supervisory capabilities through full implementation of the Supervision Law, ensuring continuous improvement in governmental accountability and policy effectiveness.

A landmark trial at a British court has unveiled startling allegations of foreign intelligence operations on UK soil, centering on two dual-passport holders with extensive security backgrounds. Chung Biu ‘Bill’ Yuen, 65, and Chi Leung ‘Peter’ Wai, 38, stand accused of conducting unauthorized surveillance and intelligence gathering against Hong Kong pro-democracy activists residing in Britain, operating under what prosecutors termed ‘shadow policing’ for Chinese interests.

Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson KC presented a meticulously documented case alleging systematic abuse of official positions. Yuen, a retired Hong Kong police officer serving as third-ranking official at London’s Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, and Wai, a UK Border Force employee and special constable, allegedly collaborated to monitor dissidents targeted by Hong Kong authorities. The prosecution detailed how Wai reportedly misused police and Home Office computer systems dating back to 2018, conducting unauthorized database searches while receiving monthly retainers allegedly connected to intelligence provision.

The operation’s scope allegedly included surveillance of multiple activists with bounties on their heads, including Monica Kwong, Finn Lau, Christopher Mung, and former legislator Nathan Law—all subjects of HK$1 million bounties offered by Hong Kong authorities. The court heard how defendants allegedly attempted to forcibly enter Kwong’s residence under false police pretenses before being intercepted by actual UK officers.

Evidence presented revealed extensive communication networks, including WhatsApp groups where Wai reportedly shared information about protesters while receiving messages praising his service ‘on behalf of the country.’ The prosecution highlighted Wai’s alleged connections with Eddie Ma, former Hong Kong police chief superintendent, who referred to dissidents as ‘cockroaches’ and arranged monthly payments for intelligence.

The case took a tragic turn with the death of co-accused Matthew Trickett, a former Royal Marine and Border Force officer who was found dead after being released on bail. Trickett had allegedly conducted database searches and organized surveillance operations targeting the activists.

Both defendants plead not guilty to charges of assisting a foreign intelligence service and foreign interference, with Wai additionally denying misconduct in public office. The trial, expected to continue for six to seven weeks, represents a significant test of Britain’s National Security Act amid escalating tensions between the UK and China over extraterritorial enforcement activities.

China has emphatically declared that no nation possesses the authority to dominate international affairs or determine the destinies of other countries. The statement came from Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress, during a press conference preceding the annual legislative gathering.

Addressing growing international concerns about the erosion of global governance systems and the diminishing role of the United Nations, Lou articulated China’s firm position against unilateralism and the increasing use of force in international relations. The spokesman specifically referenced the situation in Iran, emphasizing that the nation’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity must be fully respected.

China urgently called for the immediate cessation of military operations against Iran, advocating instead for diplomatic dialogue and negotiations to prevent further escalation of tensions in the Middle East. Lou affirmed China’s commitment to functioning as a responsible global power in facilitating peaceful resolutions.

The spokesperson outlined China’s Global Governance Initiative, which champions sovereign equality, adherence to international rule of law, genuine multilateralism, people-centered approaches, and concrete actions. This framework represents China’s proposed solution for creating a more just and equitable global governance system.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a major world power, China pledged to collaborate with all nations to uphold the authority and status of the United Nations, maintain the principles of the UN Charter, practice authentic multilateralism, and contribute significantly to global governance reform efforts aimed at building a shared future for humanity.

Beijing has issued a firm declaration against external involvement in its domestic matters, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to protect national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. The statement came from National People’s Congress spokesman Lou Qinjian during a Wednesday press conference preceding the fourth session of the 14th NPC.

Lou articulated that protecting China’s sovereign rights, security, and development interests constitutes the fundamental principle guiding the nation’s foreign engagements. His comments addressed inquiries regarding China’s diplomatic strategy toward neighboring nations amid evolving regional dynamics and specific challenges in Sino-Japanese relations.

Regarding Taiwan, Lou characterized the matter as exclusively China’s internal affair, representing a core national interest. He explicitly condemned recent statements by Japanese leadership concerning Taiwan, labeling them as inappropriate and counterproductive to bilateral relations.

The spokesman emphasized China’s enduring diplomatic priority toward neighboring countries, noting their geographical permanence as adjacent nations. He detailed China’s dedication to fostering regional peace, stability, and mutual prosperity through enhanced strategic cooperation and multifaceted exchanges, facilitated by head-of-state diplomatic leadership.

Lou further confirmed the NPC’s intention to strengthen legislative cooperation with neighboring nations through both bilateral and multilateral frameworks. This collaborative approach aims to support China’s modernization objectives while promoting synergistic development across the region.

British authorities have detained three individuals, including the partner of a sitting Labour MP, on allegations of espionage activities benefiting China. The suspects, aged 39, 43 and 68, were apprehended in coordinated operations across London and Wales under the National Security Act of 2023.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed the arrests were conducted by counter-terrorism units investigating suspected foreign intelligence operations. While emphasizing there was no “imminent or direct threat to the public,” authorities maintained all three individuals remain in custody pending further investigation.

Security Minister Dan Jarvis addressed Parliament following the operations, declaring the UK would not compromise national security for economic considerations. “This government stands resolute in our resolve to counter foreign interference activity targeting the UK from any state actor,” Jarvis stated, warning of “severe consequences” should Chinese interference in UK sovereign affairs be substantiated.

The investigation involved simultaneous searches at multiple locations in London, East Kilbride and Cardiff. Suspects face charges under Section 3 of the National Security Act, which criminalizes providing material assistance to foreign intelligence services operating against UK interests.

Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, noted a “significant increase” in national security cases in recent years, emphasizing ongoing efforts to “disrupt malign activity where we suspect it.

The arrests occur amidst delicate diplomatic relations, following Sir Keir Starmer’s recent Beijing visit and government efforts to cautiously reset UK-China economic ties. Jarvis acknowledged the complexity, stating it would be “naive” to suggest the UK shouldn’t maintain “a functional working relationship with China.”

Opposition response came from shadow cabinet office minister Alex Burghart, who warned unless the UK stands firm against such threats, the country “will continue to be treated with disdain.” Burghart referenced previous collapsed spy cases involving China and concerns over Beijing’s newly approved mega-embassy in central London, which opponents fear could serve as an espionage base.

British officials have formally notified Chinese counterparts in both London and Beijing regarding the allegations.

Beijing prepares to host the annual conclave of China’s paramount legislative authority, the National People’s Congress (NPC), commencing March 5th through March 12th. Official spokesperson Lou Qinjian confirmed the schedule during Wednesday’s press briefing, outlining an ambitious agenda for the fourth session of the 14th NPC.

The eight-day parliamentary gathering will prioritize deliberation of three foundational legislative drafts: a comprehensive environmental code, legislation promoting ethnic unity and progress, and a framework law governing national development planning. The most anticipated discussion centers on formulating China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), the blueprint guiding national economic and social development strategies.

Beyond these landmark items, the assembly will conduct mandatory reviews of annual work reports from key government branches including the State Council, NPC Standing Committee, Supreme People’s Court, and Supreme People’s Procuratorate. Legislators will examine implementation reports for the 2025 economic plan alongside draft proposals for 2026 national development and budgetary frameworks covering both central and local administrations.

The session will further address the NPC Standing Committee’s report on legislative overhaul progress and proposed handling of existing laws. To enhance transparency, three thematic press conferences will illuminate economic policies, public welfare initiatives, and foreign affairs perspectives. Ministers will elaborate on sectoral advancements while NPC deputies share insights from their governance experiences.

In a definitive statement ahead of China’s pivotal legislative gathering, official spokesperson Lou Qinjian articulated the nation’s uncompromising position against external intervention in domestic matters. Speaking at a press conference preceding the Fourth Session of the 14th National People’s Congress, Lou emphasized that safeguarding national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity remains the fundamental principle guiding China’s foreign engagements.

The spokesperson specifically addressed growing international concerns regarding cross-strait relations, identifying the Taiwan question as central to China’s core interests. Lou condemned recent remarks by Japanese leadership on Taiwan as fundamentally erroneous, reinforcing China’s position that the matter exclusively represents an internal affair. The declaration comes amid increasing geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, where multiple nations have attempted to influence China’s policy directions.

This strong reaffirmation of sovereignty principles signals China’s continued commitment to autonomous governance without external pressure. The statement aligns with historical precedents where China has consistently resisted foreign intervention, particularly regarding matters of territorial integrity and national security. The timing of this declaration, just before the National People’s Congress session, underscores the importance of unity and sovereignty in China’s policy framework during a period of complex international relations.