Broader growth plan

With China set to become the world's second largest economy this year as a result of more than three decades of reform and opening-up, the nation's new development agenda carries great significance for itself, as well as the world.

The priorities and principles of the 12th Five-Year Plan commencing in 2011, that the leaders of the Communist Party of China outlined at a meeting that ended on Monday, should be a cause for optimism.

By highlighting the urgency of improving living standards nationwide, the Chinese authorities have shown a strong resolution to shift away from the excessive focus on gross domestic product growth toward pursuing inclusive development that puts people first.