Assessing Premier Li's press conference
- By Jon Taylor
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E-mail Beijing Review, March 18, 2016
- Additional questions, additional answers
"I have confidence in a bright future for Hong Kong."
The Premier was asked about Sino-Russian relations, as well as business and economic cooperation. Premier Li stated that "China-Russia relations will not be affected by external issues" and cooperation between the two nations would not be shaken due to third party pressure.
Cross-Straits relations were also mentioned, with Premier Li noting that "As long as one adheres to the 1992 Consensus, anything can be discussed." The Premier also took time to discuss the fact that there have been some signs of improvement in Sino-Japanese relations, but that they are still quite fragile.
When asked about "what's wrong with Hong Kong," Premier Li stated that Hong Kong had to put in its own efforts to develop. He added that the HKSAR could also take advantage of mainland China's economic development, stating that "The Central Government will give full support to any proposals from the SAR government that help maintain Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability and contribute to the well-being of the people of Hong Kong."
The last question to the Premier regarded agriculture, the countryside, and villagers. Premier Li stated that coordination between national new-type urbanization and agricultural reform would accelerate during the 13th Five-Year Plan, fulfilling the pledge to improve the lives of citizens living in rural areas.
Ultimately, Premier Li Keqiang's post-Lianghui press conference had two goals: to press forward with a discussion needed reform policies and to reassure Chinese citizens that their government is working hard to meet its financial commitments despite economic disruptions. He was successful in achieving both of these goals.
The author is a Professor of Political Science at the University of St. Thomas in Houston
