Beijing gets ready to host NPC, CPPCC sessions
National People's Congress (NPC) and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) delegates from around the country are gathering in Beijing for the annual "two sessions" meetings that open this weekend. CPPCC delegates from Hong Kong left for the capital on Thursday. Some said they're prepared to submit policy proposals when the country's top political advisory body meets on Saturday. CPPCC member Peter Shiu, who's also a lawmaker, said he suggests raising the value of goods mainlanders could bring home after visiting Hong Kong. "When those from the mainland come to Hong Kong, they can only bring back goods to the mainland worth up to 5,000 yuan each time. The amount hasn't been raised since 1996," Shiu told reporters before leaving for Beijing. "With the country becoming stronger and more prosperous in the past 20 years, I hope the amount can be increased from 5,000 to 10,000 yuan." A media briefing will be held on Friday afternoon, one day before the CPPCC session opens. The NPC session, meanwhile, begins on Sunday, and a news briefing will be held at noon on Saturday. Premier Li Keqiang will deliver his final government work report in the opening NPC session. And a new government will be announced at the end of NPC session, with Li Qiang, the number two leader, expected to succeed Li Keqiang as premier.