Congress spokesman touts China's zero-Covid strategy
A spokesperson for the Communist Party congress said on Saturday that China's approach to the Covid-19 pandemic has been the right one and the most cost-effective, with the twice-in-a-decade political conclave set to commence under strict anti-epidemic policies on Sunday.  "The dynamic zero-Covid policy has enabled us to keep infection and case fatality rates at a very low level," Sun Yeli said. "Keeping to this approach, and with robust efforts to curb the virus, stabilise the economy, and secure development, we have realised sustained and stable economic development. All things considered, China's Covid response measures are most cost-effective and have worked the best for our country."  He added: "Looking ahead, we can see light and hope. With perseverance, we will triumph over the pandemic." Sun made the remarks on the eve of the opening of the 20th party congress during a media briefing in which he was also asked whether the country's era of high economic growth had ended.  "Needless to say the Covid pandemic and the international environment have caused downward pressure to our economy," he said. "On the whole, the Chinese economy is doing well among the major economies, making us still an important anchor of stability and a driving force for global growth."  Sun added: "We will step up to keep employment stable, secure people's livelihoods, and keep our economy within an appropriate range." The high-level political conclave, in Beijing, is due to wrap up next Saturday, October 22. During the course of the week, President Xi Jinping is expected to be given a renewed mandate for an unprecedented third term as party general secretary.  Meanwhile, some 2,300 delegates from across the country will pick a 200-strong Central Committee, who will in turn choose the Politburo and its all-powerful Standing Committee – China's highest leadership body – which currently comprises seven people.  The new leadership line-up is expected to be unveiled after the mostly closed-door gathering, at the Great Hall of the People, concludes.