China’s annual legislative meeting opened with nearly 3,000 delegates gathering in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People without face masks, signaling the country’s return to normalcy after years of pandemic isolation. However, the event showcased how China has changed under President Xi Jinping’s rule – becoming more insular, regimented, and tightly controlled.
Attendees had to undergo government-arranged Covid tests to enter the hall, while key traditions like the premier’s news conference were abolished. Journalists were given reports halfway through speeches, and access to information was restricted. Foreign journalists faced challenges obtaining long-term visas, and interaction with foreigners was viewed with suspicion.
Despite efforts to project openness and attract foreign investment, restrictions on both Chinese and foreign press have tightened. Examples of police brutality against journalists and increased surveillance ahead of the meeting were reported, highlighting the government’s tight grip on information dissemination.
Question-and-answer sessions with preselected delegates and officials showcased carefully curated topics such as promoting Chinese-made cars overseas. When attempts were made to interview other delegates, responses were guarded and uninformative, reflecting the controlled nature of the event.
In summary, China’s legislative meeting portrayed an image of normalcy and openness to the world, but underneath the surface, it revealed a country that has become more restrictive, insular, and less transparent in its decision-making processes. Press freedoms were limited, and journalists faced challenges in accessing information and conducting interviews, showcasing the tightening control of information in China.
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