China’s leaders meet, show unity before transition

BEIJING – China’s leaders displayed unity among the top ranks in two days of meetings with ministerial and provincial-level officials ahead of a once-a-decade political transition this fall that has been overshadowed by a scandal.

Vice President Xi Jinping, who is on track to take over from President Hu Jintao in the fall’s party congress, indicated in a closing speech on Tuesday that there would be continuity in government policy after the handover. He echoed Hu’s call on Monday to build on ‘socialism with Chinese characteristics.’The term describes China’s model of development, which for three decades has favored economic liberalization but not aggressive political reform.The handover has been marred by a scandal involving Bo Xilai, a former political high-flier who was ousted earlier this year. – Nampa-AP