Non-CPC members' opinions heard before rule-of-law decision

The Communist Party of China (CPC) listened to opinions from various non-CPC parties during the drafting of a key decision on rule of law, according to a statement published on Friday.[Special coverage]

On Aug. 19, the CPC Central Committee held a symposium with representatives from non-Communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, as well as people with no party affiliation to listen to their opinions and suggestions regarding the draft decision on "major issues concerning comprehensively advancing rule of law."

Chinese President Xi Jinping presided over the symposium and senior Chinese leaders Zhang Dejiang, Yu Zhengsheng and Wang Qishan also attended the event, according to the statement.

At the forum, Xi briefed the participants on the drafting decision and explained the CPC's consideration of the links among the efforts to promote rule of law, build a moderately prosperous society in China and deepen reforms.

The draft has revealed a basic strategy regarding China's rule of law as well as arrangements in terms of legislation, law enforcement, judicial work and law implementation, Xi was quoted as saying in the statement.

To comprehensively advance rule of law is a fundamental requirement for China to tackle problems regarding the country's development, enhance social vitality, promote social equity and maintain harmony and stability, Xi said.

The CPC has attached great importance to rule of law following the reform and opening up drive. The rule of law construction, along with construction of the Party itself and efforts to ensure the people's rights as the master of the nation, have been given a priority in the Party's political construction, he said.

Xi pointed out that the role of rule of law becomes increasingly prominent and important as China faces tasks of reform, development and stability which are more tough than ever, and unprecedented number of risks and challenges.

Xi said the CPC must firmly implement the rule of law and build a law-abiding government.

Senior leaders or representatives from non-CPC groups gave speeches at the symposium and expressed their support for the draft.

Xi promised to carefully consider their suggestions to improve the draft.

He urged the participants to faithfully respect, observe and uphold China's rule of law.

Also, he called on them to use a rule-of-law mentality to think, judge, and act and to accumulate agreements for the reforms, regulate the development efforts, solve disputes and maintain social harmony.

The fourth plenary session of the 18th CPC Central Committee, convened between Oct. 20 and 23, has deliberated on the draft decision.

The session announced a communique after its closing on Thursday, pledging sweeping judical reforms while hailing the overarching role of the Constitution in the country's legal system.