China’s top political advisor, Wang Huning, has urged for strengthened democratic oversight to protect the ecological environment of the Yangtze River. Speaking at a seminar on Wednesday, Wang emphasized the importance of high-quality completion of conservation tasks as the country’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) approaches its conclusion.
Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, addressed leaders of non-CPC political parties and independent figures at the event.
He called on these groups to leverage their unique strengths in consultative oversight by offering practical opinions and suggestions. “Efforts and resources should focus on the most critical, urgent, and prominent issues to make democratic oversight more targeted and effective,” Wang stated.
The seminar, presided over by Li Ganjie, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Central Committee, highlighted the need to review and assess the effectiveness of current oversight measures. Plans for a new round of special oversight on the Yangtze River’s ecological and environmental protection were also discussed.
Leaders from eight non-CPC parties and a representative of independent personalities contributed remarks during the seminar, reinforcing the collaborative approach to conserving China’s longest river.
The Yangtze River, which spans over 6,300 kilometers, is a vital waterway supporting millions of people and countless ecosystems. Strengthening its protection is crucial for sustainable development and environmental preservation in the Chinese mainland.
