Mar 5 • 13:22 UTC 🇨🇳 China South China Morning Post

Xi Jinping calls for China’s provincial powerhouses to lead on tech at ‘two sessions’

President Xi Jinping emphasized the need for China's major provincial economies to spearhead technological innovation and prepare for external challenges during the National People's Congress.

President Xi Jinping, during the opening of the National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing, articulated a vision for the next five years, urging China's major provincial economies to take a front-row seat in technological advancements. He highlighted the importance of innovation in upgrading traditional industries and expanding into emerging sectors, which reflects a strategic shift towards bolstering the nation's tech capabilities. Xi underscored the necessity for provinces, particularly economic powerhouses like Jiangsu, to not only innovate but also to adopt a proactive mindset in anticipating and mitigating potential risks.

The president's call to action comes as part of a broader initiative to enhance China's resilience against external pressures, particularly in light of global economic uncertainties. By advocating for a "bottom line mindset," Xi aims to prepare these provinces for worst-case scenarios that could jeopardize economic stability. This strategy indicates a shift in focus towards self-reliance and indigenous technological growth, factors deemed critical for China’s long-term economic strategy.

Moreover, the emphasis on technology and innovation comes amid rising geopolitical tensions and trade challenges. The call for provinces like Jiangsu to lead in tech transformation aligns with China's goal of enhancing national security through technological independence. The implications of this push transcend provincial development, as they seek to position China as a dominant player in the global tech landscape, ultimately affecting its economic policies and international relations.

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