The nation's leadership has "ample confidence" that China's economy will rebound, a spokesman for the National People's Congress (NPC) said on Monday, as dates for parliament's annual meeting were announced.

"The underlying trend of a rebound in the economy and long-term growth remains unchanged," Lou Qinjian told a press conference ahead of the annual session of the NPC, which kicks off on Tuesday.

"We have ample confidence on that," he said.

Lou also said that China will make new laws to deepen economic reforms, including those of financial institutions, in an effort to support private companies.

Regarding Hong Kong, Lou said Basic Law Article 23 legislation will safeguard the interests of residents and global investors in the SAR.

"This legislation works in tandem with the National Security Law and other laws in Hong Kong," he told reporters.

"Together, they form a well-established legal system for safeguarding national security, which is conducive to safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, to maintaining prosperity and stability in Hong Kong in the long run, to ensuring the fundamental well-being of Hong Kong residents, to promoting or protecting the interests of global investors in Hong Kong."

The spokesman added that the annual NPC session will open on the morning of March 5 and end on the afternoon of March 11, lasting for seven days.

Meanwhile, Lou announced that Premier Li Qiang will not hold a press conference at the close of the NPC meeting.

"This arrangement will continue for the remainder of this term of the NPC," Lou said. (Additional reporting by Reuters and AFP)
_____________________________
Last updated: 2024-03-04 HKT 13:26