A new generation of top Chinese leaders took the stage on November 15th, in one of the world’s most important power transitions, taking the helm of the ruling party of the world’s second-largest economy and the most populous country.
Xi Jinping was sworn in as general secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), leading the seven-seat Political Bureau Standing Committee.
The other six members of the top leadership of the Party’s central leading organ are Li Keqiang, Zhang Dejiang, Yu Zhengsheng, Liu Yunshan, Wang Qishan and Zhang Gaoli.
They were elected at the first plenum of the 18th CPC Central Committee following the CPC’s 18th National Congress. Their election marked a smooth top leadership transition following the 16th national congresses of the Party in 2002.
The leaders made their debut upon their election at the Great Hall of the People under the spotlight of hundreds of reporters from across the world.
The seven Standing Committee members of the Political Bureau have witnessed and endured China’s vicissitudes and hardships over the last six decades, including the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976).
Such experiences, analysts observed, gave them keen insight into China’s situation
