The third session of the 14th National People's Congress concluded with synchronized state media coverage of its closing meeting emphasizing Xi Jinping's attendance. Notable was the absence of China's third-ranking official Zhao Leji, attributed to illness by SCMP reporting, creating a rare public mystery amid the carefully choreographed proceedings.
Economic reporting highlighted February's 80% surge in new energy vehicle sales and solid-state battery development, connecting to the "new productive forces" narrative from previous days. Additionally, state media amplified Xi's education digitalization comments, suggesting a closed village school was "a good thing" while emphasizing traditional fundamentals remain essential.
International relations developments included reports of a planned Xi-Trump meeting in June, amid coverage of BRICS nations divided on dollar replacement and disruptions to China-Europe rail links due to Russian goods seizures. Independent sources highlighted exceptional security measures during this year's political meetings.