Chinese Premier Advocates for Gradual Increase in Retirement Age to Support National Modernization

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: On Thursday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the need for the steady and orderly implementation of reforms aimed at gradually raising the statutory retirement age, highlighting its crucial role in advancing Chinese modernization.

Speaking during a State Council meeting focused on mobilizing efforts for this reform, Li noted that the initiative addresses the challenges posed by an aging population and is essential for promoting high-quality population development. He stressed that the reform is a vital step towards enhancing the social security system and improving the livelihoods of citizens.

Premier Li underscored the importance of ensuring voluntary participation and flexibility in the delayed retirement policy, stating that it should genuinely reflect the intentions of employees. He urged the rapid development of supporting policies and measures, emphasizing that those directly related to the reform should be introduced and implemented as soon as possible.

Li identified the expansion of employment opportunities as a key measure to support the reform, calling for the refinement of employment policies specifically for college graduates and young people while ensuring the protection of workers’ rights.

Additionally, he advocated for tangible efforts to strengthen old-age security and services, including the effective implementation of policies aimed at raising basic pensions for urban and rural residents and retirees. The Premier also highlighted the need for better coordination and adjustment of pension insurance at the national level.

The meeting was attended by Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council, as well as State Councilor Wu Zhenglong. State Councilor Shen Yiqin presided over the session.