NPC passes Constitution update

A deputy to the 13th National People’s Congress casts her ballot on proposed amendments to the country’s Constitution at the third plenary meeting of the ongoing 13th NPC in Beijing on Sunday. RAO AIMIN / XINHUA

Amendment, first since 2004, includes provisions reinforcing country's goals

The National People's Congress, China's top legislature, adopted a landmark amendment to the country's Constitution by secret ballot on Sunday, enshrining Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era into the fundamental law.

The adoption of the first amendment to the Constitution in 14 years won the almost unanimous support of lawmakers, with 2,958 in favor, two against and three abstentions.

The amendment lists supervisory commissions as new State organs.

China's commitment to the path of peace and development, mutual benefits, win-win cooperation, opening-up and building a community with a shared future for mankind were written into the Constitution.

The national legislature wrote into the Constitution that "the leadership of the Communist Party of China is the defining feature of socialism with Chinese characteristics".