2008 National People's Congress

The 1st Plenary Session of the 11th National People's Congress () held its annual meeting from March 5 to March 18, 2008 in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, in conjunction with the 2008 CPPCC.

The 10 day plenum elected China's new government leaders. Up for confirmation for a second term were President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao. The State Council went through important personnel and structural changes following the 17th Party Congress. Zeng Qinghong's Vice-Presidency came to an end and the position was taken by Xi Jinping. Three new Vice-Premiers were confirmed and took office, with rising star Li Keqiang ranking first in this group.

Government Report

Premier Wen Jiabao delivered the government report on March 5, 2008, reviewing the work from the past five years. The main points that come out of the report were

• Rebuilding of snowstorm hit areas in Southern China. Rebuild power, communications and water infrastructure in Hunan, Anhui, Guangdong, Sichuan and Hebei.
• Control of inflation and maintain price stability for basic necessities, food and essential commodities.
• Regulation of excessive investments in fixed assets.
• Education reforms which include free nine years of education and education initiatives to assist with the rural regions.
• Increase resources towards energy conservation, more efficient technologies and......
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