Beijing: China's ruling Communist Party has acknowledged an increase in uncertainties and unforeseen factors affecting the nation's economy, despite the existence of strategic opportunities. The remarks were conveyed at the conclusion of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) during its fourth plenary session in Beijing, chaired by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
According to Anadolu Agency, the plenum, which spanned four days, involved discussions and the adoption of recommendations for the CPC Central Committee's formulation of the 15th Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development from 2026 to 2030. A communique released at the end of the session urged the entire Party, military, and people across China to rally closely around the Party Central Committee, with Xi at its core.
The Central Committee, consisting of 205 top officials and 167 alternate members, plays a crucial role in decision-making and its recommendations are considered by the National People's Congress for adoption. The communique emphasized the importance of the upcoming Five-Year Plan period in reinforcing foundations and advancing socialist modernization by 2035. It highlighted the need for China to build a modernized industrial system, achieve self-reliance in science and technology, and develop a robust domestic market.
According to Neil Thomas, a China analyst at the New York-based Asia Society, attendance at the plenum was notably low, with only 168 permanent members and 147 alternates present. Thomas suggested that this low attendance indicated a significant purge within the Central Committee.
The committee also underscored the importance of achieving military modernization goals, promoting Gen. Zhang Shengmin to a key position within the Central Military Commission. This decision followed the expulsion of several military officials, indicating ongoing disciplinary actions within the military ranks.
In addition, the plenum addressed corruption within the military, suspending Gen. Zhang Fengzhong pending an investigation. It filled vacancies in the Central Committee with alternate members and noted near-record disciplinary actions against 14 members.
Thomas further commented that the recent purges left the Central Military Commission with only four members, including President Xi, down from the customary six ordinary members. He suggested that Xi might wait until the 21st Party Congress in 2027 to appoint new members to the CMC and Politburo.