Highlights of Premier Li's press conference

Premier Li Keqiang answers questions of reporters at a news conference during the annual two sessions in Beijing on March 15, 2017. [Photo by Xu Jingxing/chinadaily.com.cn]

Tax & fees

China will continue to reduce the tax burden and cut fees on companies this year as part of efforts to help improve their competitiveness.

"The central government is required to take the lead in reducing government expenses in order to leave room for cutting costs of enterprises."

Costs of broadband access, electricity and logistics will be further reduced. More

Mainland-Taiwan

The mainland will continue to adhere to the 1992 Consensus as the political foundation to oppose Taiwan independence resolutely and uphold peace across the Taiwan Straits.

"Our policy towards Taiwan has been consistent and clear-cut, that is we will continue to adhere to the 1992 Consensus, which embodies one China principle, as the political foundation, oppose resolutely Taiwan independence, uphold peace across Taiwan Straits, uphold peaceful development of cross-Straits relations, and safeguard the well-being of people on both sides."

The peaceful development in cross-Straits relations has brought and will continue to bring new opportunities for compatriots in Taiwan. More

China-Europe

A bilateral investment treaty between China and the EU will help in further opening-up trade between the two sides.

China will continue to widen its market access for European businesses and European-invested companies registered in China will be treated equally as their Chinese counterparts. More

Air pollution

New special fund will bring together top scientists to tackle smog. "Blue skies will not be, and should not be, a luxury."

China will take firm steps to address coal consumption, vehicle exhaust emissions and dust. More