As expected, the speech was heavy on aspiration and short on specific measures, but during Xi's first term, China disappointed many expecting it to usher in more market-oriented reforms. By 2050, Xi said, China would become a modern socialist "strong power" with leading influence on the world stage. "We must unwaveringly uphold and improve party leadership and make the party still stronger." Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks during the opening session of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China Oct 18, 2017. Focus at the congress will be on how Xi plans to put his expanded authority to use.

Source: bd News24 October 18, 2017 07:52 UTC