The third annual session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) concluded in Beijing on Tuesday.

President Xi Jinping and other leaders attended the closing at the Great Hall of the People.

But there was one notable absence: Zhao Leji, the NPC Standing Committee chairman, suffered a respiratory infection.

His deputy, vice-chairman Li Hongzhong, took his place and presided over the ceremony.

In his closing speech, Li declared the week-long session a success.

“The meeting fully demonstrated democracy, and all work was conducted in strict accordance with the law. We identified our goals and tasks and also conveyed confidence and strength. It is a meeting about delivering real results through solid work, as well as forging unity,” he said.

“Let us rally around the leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at the core, forge ahead with perseverance and diligence, and further contribute to the country’s modernisation with Chinese characteristics.”

Nearly 2,900 NPC delegates in attendance passed seven draft resolutions, including one endorsing the annual government work report delivered by Premier Li Qiang last week.

Hong Kong's sole delegate to the top legislature, Starry Lee, says it's a "responsible decision" for Zhao to skip the closing.

The SAR deputy revealed the top official was also absent from two NPC presidium meetings.

"We all understand that sickness is really difficult to control ... We noticed that he (Zhao) had been absent for two times already," she said.
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Last updated: 2025-03-11 HKT 18:00