At the eight-day "two sessions," a key event in China's political calendar ending Thursday, the country has shown firm determination to eradicate absolute poverty and build a moderately prosperous society in all respects.

The third session of the 13th National People's Congress and third session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference were convened in a special year marked by development milestones and unprecedented challenges from COVID-19.

Here are some of the key messages and signals sent from the key political gathering:

HOMESTRETCH TO KEY MILESTONES

This year, China is in the final push in poverty alleviation and completing the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, a centenary goal reflecting China's "people first" governing philosophy.

Despite COVID-19 uncertainties, the country's timetable remains unchanged for the development milestones. China is resolute in completing the toughest mission of its battle against poverty by lifting its remaining poor population out of poverty.

THINKING OUTSIDE THE GDP BOX

In light of COVID-19 uncertainties and the global economic and trade environment, China has set no specific target for 2020 economic growth.

The decision was made because the country will face some factors that are difficult to predict in its development due to the great uncertainty regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the world economic and trade environment.

China aims to create over 9 million new urban jobs, record a further drop in energy consumption per unit of GDP, and save more than 2.5 trillion yuan (about 350 billion U.S. dollars) for enterprises throughout the year.

EXPANDING INVESTMENT FOR SMARTER, CONNECTED FUTURE

Amid contraction of global trade and investment, China aims to spur effective domestic investment by planning more special local government bonds, with priority given to new infrastructure, new urbanization initiatives and key projects.

Major moves will focus on developing next-generation information networks, expanding 5G applications, building more charging facilities and promoting wider use of new energy vehicles.

Rather than resorting to a massive flood-like stimulus to prop up growth, China is seeking more precise investments in projects that are able to incubate innovation and fortify foundations for future economic and social development.