China from the Outside In: The "Two Sessions"

China's "Two Sessions" have once again charted the course for the year ahead—focusing on high-quality development and offering fresh perspectives on global governance. But how are these signals resonating outside of China? In this episode, we bring together journalists and experts from Brazil, India, Pakistan, Rwanda, and Cameroon, as well as voices from Europe, for a cross-regional dialogue. From industrial upgrades and technological innovation to development cooperation and multilateral governance, we explore how China's priorities will influence the global conversation on development and fairness.

The economic partnership between China and Africa continues to strengthen, driven by deepening cooperation in trade, infrastructure, and sustainable development. Projects under the Belt and Road Initiative—from expanding railways to rising city skylines—are transforming Africa's economic landscape. China's commitment to zero-tariff treatment for African goods and the launch of trade green lanes for agricultural exports are enhancing economic integration and empowering African producers. As 2026 marks the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges and a pivotal year for China's 15th Five-Year Plan, this episode explores the next chapter of this evolving partnership.

China's Two Sessions have charted a course for a smart economy, green transition, and social resilience. But beyond the policies, one question stands out: how do these priorities actually touch people's lives? In this episode, we bring together journalists from across the Global South to share their insights. From AI innovation to job creation, they help us unpack what "people-centered development" truly means on the ground. Host Li Qiuyuan is joined by Zhao Yunfei, reporter at CGTN; Peninah Karibe, anchor at CGTN Africa; Haroldo Martinez, founder of the Guatemalan news portal iDocumenta; Audrey Utoyo, news anchor at Indonesia's TVRI World; Irfan Ashraf, anchor at Pakistan's SAMAA TV; and Fortune Abang, chief correspondent at the News Agency of Nigeria.

As the "Two Sessions" unfold in Beijing, what do they mean for the Global South? How do developing nations view China's economic priorities this year? What signals do they see in China's foreign policy, and how could this impact cooperation across Asia, Africa, and Latin America? In this episode, journalists and experts from across the developing world share their perspectives on China's biggest political event of the year. The discussion focuses on China's "15th Five-Year Plan" and its growing ties with the Global South. Experts agree that the Global South must unite to strengthen multilateral cooperation in the face of global challenges.

China's "Two Sessions", the annual meetings of the country's top legislature and top political advisory body, have been garnering global attention. Journalists from across the globe, including many from Africa, have gathered in Beijing to cover the event and examine the global implications of China's policy agenda. African journalists Fortune Abang and Satyen Bhuruth share their perspectives on the lessons and practices that Africa could adapt from this year's gatherings to support its own development priorities.

The Global Governance Initiative (GGI) has been included in the recommendations for China’s new Five-Year Plan for the first time. This comes as national lawmakers and political advisors gather in Beijing for the annual "Two Sessions.” What does this mean for the world? Rooted in a people-centered vision, how will the GGI benefit ordinary people in the Global South? Host Xu Yawen is joined by Özgür Altınbaş, Chief of the Foreign News Service at Aydinlik in Türkiye, and Muhammad Zamir Assadi, Director at the China Desk of Lord Media Network in Pakistan, to explore the GGI’s real-world impact and how China is translating global commitments into practical action.

China from the Outside In: The "Two Sessions" offers a unique perspective on China's most important annual political event. Through conversations with international journalists and global experts, we unpack the key issues, policies, and debates from the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). Gain insight into how these decisions shape China's future and their impact on the world stage.