Mint Explainer: Highlights from the Party Congress of China

What are the main findings from the conference?

As expected, Xi secured an unprecedented third term at the helm of the Chinese Communist Party. The concentration of power in his hands was clearly visible in the composition of the Standing Committee of the Politburo, a group of seven people who ruled China. Unlike previous leaders who created a delicate factional balance in this top political body, Xi alienated party elders and rival factions to keep his own allies in top positions. Not only that, they have disregarded many informal norms on age restrictions: older leaders were generally retired while younger ones were allowed to continue. These norms, which brought some stability to Chinese politics, were abolished. Closeness and loyalty to Xi is the only measure by which leaders were promoted.

Who were the winners and losers?

While Xi’s faction, which had surrounded him during his youth and time in China’s Fujian and Zhejiang provinces, was the clear winner, former presidents Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao the clear losers. The world was shocked by the pictures of former Chinese leader Hu Jintao being thrown out of Congress. While the official explanation was that the former leader was suffering health problems, many have speculated that he was removed in a show of strength. Party elders, who play important roles in politics despite rising from key positions, usually retain their role in governing China. Xi has put a stop to this and presided over the erosion of his authority.

What are the consequences for the world?

Given Xi’s speech at the Party Congress, China’s aggressive foreign policy is likely to continue. Xi reiterated his massive crackdown on pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. Likewise, his aggressive stance on Taiwan was justified as a move against those in Taiwan who sought independence. Xi’s centralization of power has meant that many members of the CCP who wish to see a less confrontational diplomatic approach towards the West have been sidelined. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who has been a key member of Xi’s foreign policy team, has been placed in the Politburo and will likely become Xi’s top adviser on foreign affairs. China’s ‘zero COVID’ strategy will continue and disrupt economic growth by forcing repeated shutdowns of key sectors in the Chinese economy.

What are the consequences for India?

India-China relations are unlikely to improve under Xi’s leadership. Several border crises, which took place during Xi’s tenure, have poisoned relations. New Delhi has made it clear that normalcy will not be restored without the restoration of status quo before the Galwan conflict. Given that the impasse has been going on for nearly two and a half years, a solution is unlikely. As stated earlier, Xi’s aggressive foreign policy is likely to continue and may no longer be scrutinized by more moderate leaders who have been sidelined.