Interview: CPC key to successful reform, Spanish political observer says

The Sixth Plenary Session of the 18th Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee is very important in the crucial phase of China's current reform and the Party is the key to its successful implementation, a Spanish observer has said.

Xulio Rios, director of Spain's Observatory of Chinese Politics, said this in a recent interview with Xinhua.

With far-reaching structural changes, the formulation of the rule of law and the comprehensive construction of an affluent society, the CPC is ready to deal with a decisive stage, during which the definitive foundation should be built to complete the modernization process not only in the economy, but also in society and politics, he said.

"The CPC is the key to a successful reform and everything depends on the CPC's good health," Rios said, adding that its concentration and sustainability will guarantee success and that "a stricter governance that preserves its leading status and public credibility is essential."

It has been more than three decades since the beginning of the reform and opening-up and the country's economic success has helped garner social support for the reform and the party, the observer said.

During the process, there have been unwanted side effects, such as imbalances, environmental degradation and corruption, and it is necessary to implement corrective measures at all levels to prevent their increase, he added.

"The decisions made at the Sixth Plenary Session mean a qualitative leap in dynamics of the Party," Rios said. The assertion of individual responsibility and the preservation of a collective leadership suggest a new balance in decision-making and management of government affairs at all levels.

Measures for the standardization of domestic policy and observing discipline and morals in line with the regulations reflect the need to adapt to changing times, which must be led by a demand for rigorous ethical standards for those involved in public affairs, Rios said.

This emphasis will increase the quality of public management and will effectively result in the enforcement and implementation of the necessary measures for the progress of the reform.

"Without a cohesive and disciplined party, cracks can affect the stability of the building," he said.

Rios stressed that the CPC is facing unprecedented tasks. The unity and authority of the Party are now essential to ensure the implementation of the measures. The decisions will lead to a new atmosphere that should imbue all political institutions, including the central government, local authorities and others, raising the significance of the Party.

He said the modernization of the country by means suited to the country's unique characteristics will once again define China's path and offer an alternative based on the Chinese ideology and culture.

He also pointed out that insisting on the purity of the Party has become a key factor in defining a path for China in the context of the global economic crisis.

New rules and procedures should be consolidated to raise the moral standards of the CPC and its members to face more challenges and ensure public recognition of their suitability and ability to realize the two centenary goals of building an all-round moderately prosperous society and becoming a modern socialist country as well as the Chinese Dream, the observer added. Endi