The most important Chinese document of the century?

Introduction. The Chinese Communist Party(CCP) met for its sixth plenary session, and released a revealing statement. Officially titled the 6th plenum communique, this statement shows how CCP understands itself, China's future, and much more. Top takeaways👇

This statement underlines China's transformation from a "highly centralized planned economy into a socialist market economy." The phrase "Socialism with Chinese Characteristics" comes up 26 times. CCP is keen on continuing its socialist project attuned with Chinese realities.

The party wants to maintain a sense of historical continuity. The statement tipped its hat to "Mao Zedong Thought," the "Deng Xiaoping Theory," and other philosophies of ex-Chinese leaders.

CCP was established in 1921 - therefore this year marks the party's centenary anniversary. The "First Centenary Goal," adopted in 2012, was to establish a Xiaokang society. This Chinese term translates to "a moderately prosperous society." The party claims it has hit this target.

One Country, Two Systems. The document reinforces CCP's policy of "One Country, Two Systems" as it applies to the case of Hong Kong. The party supports "law-based governance in Hong Kong" and is firmly against "separatist activities" and "foreign interference."

The anxiety of making a big mistake. The statement rather ominously states: "We must be absolutely certain that we make no catastrophic mistakes on fundamental issues." The document states that the party must "learn from history" and safeguard the interests of China.

People, nation, country. CCP has a three fold strategy - make the Chinese people "prosperous," the Chinese nation "strong," and the Chinese country "beautiful." This strategy respectively touches upon the economy, geopolitics, and environment of China.

Second Centenary Goal. China became independent in 1949, and hence the party has announced 2049 to be the deadline for achieving the 2nd Centenary Goal. By 2049, China aims to become a "strong, democratic, harmonious, and modern socialist country."

Long termism. Throughout the document, the CCP stresses its long-term goals and visions. How many countries put out a document and discuss its 50-year and 100-year goals?

Bottom line. This document is a revealing look at the thought-process of Chinese leaders. Paradoxes remain, though. For example: how does China plan to become both democratic and socialist? The future will hold interesting answers.