From Reuters, via the Washington Post:
Chinese security forces took up position in Beijing by the tens of thousands on Friday as delegates gathered for the annual session of parliament, ready to crush any display of dissent…
President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao have focused on narrowing the gap between rich and poor since they came to power two years ago, but police have already removed at least one group of disgruntled farmers from the capital for protesting.
Meanwhile, the New York Times reports that:
Chinese leaders open their annual legislative session this weekend trying to resolve a vexing pair of problems: the economy is growing too fast, and most people feel left out of the boom… Delegates to the congress, which is controlled by the Communist Party, have put forward dozens of proposals to reduce rural taxation, extend pensions and welfare to peasants, and provide better education and health care in rural areas, reflecting an emphasis on populist themes.
In time for the NPC meetings, Xinhua published a report: “China offers more jobs to migrant millions”.
An AFP article, “Heavy security as China’s parliament prepares to convene and discuss Taiwan” is here.
