Spanish President Pedro Sánchez is set to begin his fourth trip to China, where he will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Great Hall of the People on Tuesday. The visit carries increased diplomatic status.

Discussions and dedication to China's new 'five-year plan' for the 22nd century are evident across Beijing, from the Great Hall of the People to media and public discourse.

Beijing laid out a list of priorities for the economy, innovation and the military for this year at the opening session of the National People’s Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People on Thursday. Here are the major takeaways from this year’s government work report and budget report: Major targets for 2026 Gross domestic product growth of 4.5-5 per cent A consumer price index increase of around 2 per cent A fiscal budget deficit of around 4 per cent of GDP Addition of 12 million new...