2nd Session of 10th NPC closes

cctv.com 03-14-2004 19:19

The Second Session of the 10th National People's Congress has come to a close in Beijing. Despite being four days shorter than previous annual sessions, this year's NPC meeting has been hailed as "fruitful" by China's top legislators, especially for its historic revision of the constitution.

Chairman of the body's National Standing Committee Wu Bangguo wound up the session with a speech, in which he called the meeting an important step towards achieving socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The conference approved draft resolutions on the work reports of Premier Wen Jiabao and the heads of governmental departments. The nation's nearly 3,000 top legislators voted for the constitution amendments, which incorporate the important thinking of the "Three Represents" and increase protection of private property and human rights.

Chairman Wu noted the amendments to the current constitution reflect the unified will of the Party and Chinese people of all nationalities. The constitutional revision has been lauded by some NPC deputies as the result of China's efforts to keep abreast of the times.

Zhu Shan Ping, NPC Deputy from Jiangsu Province, said, "The government not only focused on economic development, but also focused on the conception for humanity. As we say people first, not only people's health, but also life and property. This will enhance our economic development." Many other deputies believe the revision is an important step on the road democracy.

LI LI, NPC Deputy from Shandong Province, said: "Of the 14 amendments, 12 relate to human rights. This is a sign of China's democratic progress. It's also a necessary step for China to strengthen its links with the world."

Editor:Wang  Source:CCTV.com