Guo Weimin, spokesperson of the fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee, speaks during a news conference via video link in Beijing on March 3, 2021. [Photo by Zou Hong/chinadaily.com.cn]

The National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, China's top political advisory body, held a news conference via video link on March 3, one day ahead of the opening of its annual session.

Guo Weimin, spokesperson of the fourth session of the 13th CPPCC National Committee, briefed journalists on the session and took questions.

Here are some highlights:

- The session this year will last six and a half days, opening at 3 pm tomorrow and closing on the afternoon of March 10

- Chinese COVID-19 vaccines safe, meet global standards

- As of Feb 28, China had administered over 52 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines
- As of Feb 28, China had provided COVID-19 vaccine related assistance to 69 countries and two international organizations, as well as exported vaccines to 28 countries 

- Attempts to boycott Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics are 'doomed to fail' 

- China's international image affected by many factors, including lack of understanding and hostile politicians 

- The standard that China used to track its poverty relief efforts is a 'comprehensive' one 

- Important to regulate internet firms' use of personal information, with many measures seeking to address this 

- Multi-party cooperation led by CPC is basic system of China; it has unique strength and distinctive features
- China is boosting older citizens' access to digital services 
- The central government has worked to help Hong Kong recover from the impact of COVID-19; With concerted efforts Hong Kong will embrace a bright future