China’s Two Sessions Conclude With Approval of 15th Five-Year Plan and Emphasis on Governance Modernization

On March 13, 2026, China’s 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) concluded its fourth session in Beijing, marking the end of the annual “Two Sessions” comprising the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. Delegates completed deliberations on key legislative and policy agendas, including the approval of the draft outline for China’s 15th Five-Year Plan for National Economic and Social Development.

The government work report highlighted priorities such as advancing the modernization of the national governance system, accelerating technological innovation, promoting high-quality economic growth, and sustaining anti-corruption efforts. During the closing address, senior officials underscored the importance of these sessions as a core component of China’s consultative democratic process, affirming commitments to legal and policy frameworks aimed at improving governance, national security, and social well-being. Members also engaged in discussions on foreign policy, economic goals, and social stability measures, reflecting a broad consensus on addressing both domestic and international challenges.

Observers note that the outcomes of this year’s Two Sessions set the policy direction for China’s economic and political agenda in 2026 and are likely to shape Beijing’s engagement with global governance and international cooperation in the months ahead.