China's Communist Party Plenary Ends

The Communist Party of China (CPC) concluded the Fifth Plenary Session of the 17th Central Committee on Oct. 18. The meeting came at a time of changing social and economic structure in the country, and the CPC needs to ensure a smooth leadership transition and a balance of social and economic development to guarantee its legitimacy. While there was heavy emphasis on governmental reform prior to the meeting, the CPC likely will use an incremental approach to any changes in order to ensure its continued control.