During China’s annual legislative meeting, President Xi Jinping underscored his determination to push China towards technological supremacy, regardless of economic challenges or trade tensions with the United States. The meeting, historically a showcase for public consultation by Communist Party leaders, has transformed under Xi into a homage to his vision. He urged advancement in fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology, inspired by the U.S. investment in science post-World War II. Xi’s priorities align with his belief that China’s success in economic growth, military enhancement, and achieving global leadership is contingent upon leading in science. His agenda for self-sufficiency and global science leadership was reflected in the meeting’s various sessions and the national budget, which allocates increased funds to science, technology, and the military. Despite criticism that his focus on futuristic goals neglects immediate social and economic issues, Xi shows no signs of altering course. He also maintains a strong grip on political power, showing no intention of choosing a successor and using anti-corruption measures to deter any challenges. While the U.S. leads in science and technology spending, cuts under former President Trump could narrow the gap. The strategic competition between the U.S. and China places significant importance on technology, with China likely to continue its aggressive pursuit of technological advancement under Xi’s leadership.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/11/world/asia/china-xi-trump.html