China sets growth, defence targets

China announced a growth target of 7.5% and revealed plans to raise its defence budget by 12.2%, as it opened its annual parliament session in Beijing. Premier Li Keqiang said that economic development was the central task of the government, but "painful structural adjustments" were needed. Japan voiced concern at the defence move, citing a "lack of transparency". Mr Li also pledged to "declare war" on pollution, fight corruption "without mercy", and "crack down" on terrorism. The congress marks one year since Xi Jinping was confirmed as president. The 10-day meeting of around 3,000 legislators from delegations across China began on Wednesday, according to BBC.