Leadership change signals more reforms ahead

The most significant political event in China this year was the leadership change. Xi Jinping succeeded Hu Jintao as head of the Communist Party of China in November. He's promised to continue the country's transformation into a global giant, and bring more benefits to a fifth of the world's population. CCTV reporter Han Bin looks as the challenges ahead.

A transition in China's leadership, a milestone for the country's politics - Xi Jinping became the top leader of the ruling Communist Party. He's well-aware of the tough tasks ahead.

Xi Jinping, General Secretary of CPC Central Committee, said, "The Party faces many severe challenges, there are many pressing problems within the Party that needs to be resolved---particularly corruption, being out of touch from the people, and bureaucratism."

Xi Jinping named fighting corruption as the top challenge. Better party discipline is also needed. The new leadership issued 8 streamlining measures. For example, when officials go travelling, there will be "no welcome banner, no red carpet, no floral arrangement and no grand receptions."

Dai Yanjun, Deputy Head of Party Building, Central Party School, said, "The 8 points are designed to instruct officials from the Politburo. It asks them to set examples from the top. These measures are all related to the public interest, and represent more than just a form. "

Xi Jinping has also made maintaining healthy economic development his top priority. The outgoing Party Secretary, Hu Jintao, has set the goal of doubling 2010 GDP and per capita income for both urban and rural residents in the next 10 years.

The new leadership has to turn the blueprint into reality. They know a new model for economic growth is needed. Development must be made more balanced and sustainable.