March 5-15, 2002

The NPC is considered the highest organ of state power in China. Its main functions and powers include formulation of laws, election of politicians, and supervision of government policy and its implementation.

Nearly 3,000 deputies meet in the Great Hall of the People on Beijing's Tiananmen Square to discuss ways to maintain economic growth and to offset the negative impact of China's accession to the World Trade Organization including unemployment and social unrest.