BRI opens immense opportunities for China's private sector: NPC deputy

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has created major opportunities for private companies in China to expand global presence, a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) said in Beijing on Thursday.

Lu Xiaolin, an NPC deputy and chairman of BoFa Fortune Best Holding Group, highlighted the opportunities the BRI has brought to her company's development and the role of private-sector innovation in supporting broader national development at a group interview ahead of the closing ceremony of the fourth session of the 14th NPC at the Great Hall of the People earlier in the day.

"Through Belt and Road cooperation, private enterprises like ours have gained tremendous opportunities to 'go global' and carry out international cooperation. Our company has participated in the construction of multiple overseas engineering projects in Belt and Road countries. To date, we have completed technological upgrades to 20 key pieces of equipment and obtained patents, breaking a 30-year monopoly held by developed countries in some critical equipment," she said.

The fourth session of the 14th NPC concluded Thursday afternoon, marking the end of this year's "two sessions".

The two sessions refer to the annual gatherings of the NPC and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body.

The fourth session of the CPPCC's 14th National Committee concluded on Wednesday.

BRI opens immense opportunities for China's private sector: NPC deputy

A total of 33 Chinese nationals who had been working in Iran arrived safely in Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on Wednesday, after Chinese authorities helped to evacuate them from the war-torn country.

After the regional crisis was sparked by joint U.S. and Israeli military strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, Chinese authorities have been working to assist nationals stranded overseas amid the worsening situation in the Middle East.

Following extensive coordination by Chinese diplomatic missions, the evacuees were rerouted on a China Southern Airlines flight from Azerbaijan back to China.

Upon arrival, the Urumqi Immigration Inspection Station activated a dedicated "green channel" to ensure their fast and efficient clearance, easing their journey home after their traumatic experience.

"At first, I was really anxious. With the help of the embassy staff, we all made it back home safely. I feel truly relieved and happy," said Tian Heguo, one of the Chinese evacuees.

"We aim to show our care through thoughtful service, streamlining the inspection process, and easing anxieties with patient and calm communication. Our goal is to make every returnee feel the warmth and comfort of home the moment they set foot on Chinese soil," said Zhao Zijing, a captain for the Third Duty Team at the Urumqi Immigration Inspection Station.

Over 30 Chinese nationals evacuated from Iran arrive in Urumqi