"Key Highlights from China's 2024 'Two Sessions' Political Gathering"

China's National People's Congress annual meeting is set to open with a focus on the economy, as the country grapples with economic challenges. The congress, largely ceremonial, is expected to discuss proposals to raise the retirement age and reveal the government's economic growth target for the year. Speculation surrounds the possible introduction of a new foreign minister, with names like Liu Jianchao and Ma Zhaoxu being floated as potential successors. The meeting is seen as an opportunity to gauge the future direction of government policy, although real decision-making power lies with the Communist Party leaders.