China's NPC: What you need to know

ECONOMY AND GROWTH

China will aim for economic growth of about 5% this year as it works to transform its development model, curb industrial overcapacity, defuse property sector risks and cut wasteful spending by local governments.

Taiwan and defence

Referring to Taiwan, China will "be firm in advancing the cause of China reunification", dropping previous mentions of "peaceful reunification". China also announced it would boost defence spending by 7.2% this year, in line with last year.

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

China will formulate development plans for emerging industries, including quantum computing, and will continue striving toward self-sufficiency in technology, including stepping up efforts in big data and artificial intelligence.

CHILDREN AND THE ELDERLY

China will improve policies supporting childbirth and detailed plans to support a growing elderly population by raising benefits and basic pensions and pushing forward a private pension system.

ENERGY AND RESOURCES

China will step up exploration and development of oil, natural gas and strategic minerals to ensure energy and resource security and will tighten control over fossil fuels consumption.

SOURCE: REUTERS