French national: I enjoy energy and power of Chinese cities

The annual sessions of the National People's Congress (NPC), China's parliament, and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) are the most important political events during the year. During the “two sessions”, China will elect its new leadership.

People’s Daily Online interviewed Pierre Bitaudeau, 24, a French national who has been in China for two years and now works as an account manager for a French luxury brand in Shanghai. He shared with us his knowledge and concerns about the “two sessions” in China.

The following is the interview with Pierre Bitaudeau:

People’s Daily Online: Have you heard of the two sessions in China ((National People's Congress-NPC and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference-CPPCC)?

Pierre Bitaudeau: Yes, in local news and international websites.

People’s Daily Online: Are you interested in the two sessions? Why?

Pierre Bitaudeau: Of course, as a foreigner living in China I have to care about local political decisions, changes, and the government’s targets for the future of China. Also since the Communist Party has a new leader, I want to know in which way he’ll pilot China’ s economical, political and social plans.

People’s Daily Online: What proposal or topic may catch your attention during the two sessions?

Pierre Bitaudeau: I’ll specially pay attention to the environment topic: pollution in big cities is increasing and a solution has to be found. The food security problem and real estate prices in cities as Shanghai, Beijing are also the topics what may attract my concern.

People’s Daily Online: In recent years, some foreign consular officials, executives and experts were invited to participate in the provincial two sessions, how do you see this phenomenon?

Pierre Bitaudeau: That shows that China takes more importance on the international plans, and becomes more and more open to international voice. Also, it’s a good way, in my opinion to show outside the progress and development China realized during the last few years. The progress in China is really impressive.

People’s Daily Online: Since you live in China, what do you enjoy the most? What upset you the most?

Pierre Bitaudeau: Yes, I live here! What I enjoy the most is the energy and power that the cities have: there are always people outside, new activities, new projects and news opportunities to catch... China is an ambitious country.
What upset me could be the quality of air and environment, but it’s quite a small point comparing to the good side.

People’s Daily Online: What do your friends think about the two sessions in China?

Pierre Bitaudeau: My Chinese friends really care of it because they’re the first concerned by the new laws, reforms and projects. Also it’s the first Session for Mr. Xi Jinping and it has to be perfect to show the new way he wants for China- that’s what they say!
As foreigners we are not directly affected by it. But most of my foreigner friends still pay attention to it, because we like to compare the differences of political reunions between China and our countries. We think it’s important not only for China but also for the rest of the world regarding to the decisions that will be done.