Nation prepared to play larger role in global system

As China plays a larger role on the global stage, the two sessions are becoming increasingly significant internationally, according to a senior academic in London.

Erik Berglof, director of the London School of Economics' Institute of Global Affairs, said China's domestic reform and its championing of free trade and globalization set the scene for this year's legislative meetings.

"Chinese leaders need to do much more to take into account the international implications of domestic decisions," he said. "China is an important part of the global economic system. It cannot stand on the sidelines."