Xi Jinping endorses Deng Xiaoping's party mantra
Leader urges party to adhere to reformer's philosophy of 'socialism with Chinese characteristics' but gives credit to achievements of Mao Zedong
Communist Party general secretary Xi Jinping yesterday called on newly elected senior party members to adhere to "socialism with Chinese characteristics". Since Xi took over as leader there have been growing calls for wide-ranging reforms.
Although analysts cautioned that it was too early to know what role reform will play in Xi's administration, his affirmation of the key party doctrine comes at a sensitive time when he is trying to consolidate his own political power.
Since Xi took the helm in November, the leadership has unveiled a series of initiatives, including orders to officials to cut pomp and shorten speeches.
Meanwhile, scores of officials, including a deputy provincial party secretary in Sichuan, have been swept up in corruption investigations.
At the same, the country has also seen signs of tightening controls on information, including stricter internet rules and a row over propaganda authorities' interference in the reputable Southern Weekly.
Speaking at a Central Party School seminar for newly elected members of the party's Central Committee, Xi highlighted the importance of sticking to "socialism with Chinese characteristics" - the doctrine late paramount leader Deng Xiaoping came up with to advance economic reform three decades ago.