Q&A|Stephen Perry

The 19th CPC National Congress introduced Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. How do you think it will guide China's future?

In 1978, many people in the West thought China had aims and targets of which there was no evidence they could be achieved. They were achieved. So when one looks at the targets for 2021, 2035 and 2049, we can expect that they are well thought through and tested, and will be achieved based on the experience of the past 38 years. Some Western media try to find holes in the Chinese plans, but China develops well beyond Western levels of success.

So the concept of sharing the wealth of a productive and modern China, and caring for the people of China responsibly, comes through as the two characteristics of socialism with Chinese characteristics. These two targets look very capable of success now that the foundations are down. The new China is coming into focus and will be a great benefit to the people of China. A socialist market economy will be the first in the world and is very likely to illuminate routes for many nations.