Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for better integration of technology and industry, stressing the need to upgrade traditional sectors and foster future sources of innovation.
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Addressing deputies from the eastern province of Jiangsu in Beijing on Wednesday, Xi also reaffirmed support for private businesses – a message he has delivered repeatedly as part of the country’s push to grow despite rising US tariffs and trade tensions.
“Scientific and technological innovation, along with industrial innovation, are key to driving productivity,” Xi said on the sidelines of the annual parliamentary sessions.
“We’ll keep pushing to upgrade traditional industries to maintain the real economy while creating new opportunities in emerging strategic sectors.”
Xi also stressed the need for authorities to follow through on commitments made to the private sector during a meeting with the country’s leading entrepreneurs last month. Those commitments included equal treatment for all businesses, regardless of ownership.
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China’s ‘two sessions’: small businesses voice concerns as they face economic headwinds
China’s ‘two sessions’: small businesses voice concerns as they face economic headwinds
In his discussions with Jiangsu deputies on Wednesday, Xi urged the province to lead in industrial innovation, regional cooperation, and common prosperity, emphasising Jiangsu’s role as an economic powerhouse.