International Politics: China's parliament to look at widening wealth gap and environmental degradation

China has begun its annual parliamentary session with calls to address a widening wealth gap, environmental degradation and other issues attending its economic growth.

The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), opened its 12-day session on Saturday afternoon at the Great Hall of the People in the capital.

The opening of the ceremonial 2,267-member body is a prelude to Monday's start of the upper house and main legislative body, the 3,000-member National People's Congress (NPC).

CPPCC Chairman Jia Qinglin said, "The CPPCC should fully play its role to promote the harmonious relations between different parties, nationalities, religions, social classes, and compatriots from both home and overseas".

Post: 6/10