Q&A|Tom Harper

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

The idea of socialism with Chinese characteristics for a new era represents the continuity within Chinese policy. In keeping with this, I believe that these ideas are best reflected in the concept of the Chinese Dream, in that China will seek to pursue its own path. It is somewhat difficult to describe the form that this path will take, but I believe that this will come in the form of the continued objectives of successive Chinese governments, which is the return of China to the power and prestige it once held, but on a possibly greater scale. I also believe by following socialism with Chinese characteristics, China is providing an example for the wider world to follow, which furthers the idea of a Chinese form of globalization.

President Xi Jinping said China has embarked on a "new era" in its development while spelling out a two-stage development plan for the country by the mid-21st century. What do you think of that? What is happening in China that impresses you the most?