The CPC Central Committee has approved candidates for state leadership positions ahead of the National People's Congress session. It also approved candidates for leaders of the National Committee of the People's Political Consultative Conference.

Chinese President and CPC General Secretary Hu Jintao delivers an important speech at the Second Plenary Session of the 17th Central Committee of the CPC in Beijing, Feb. 27,2008. The Second Plenary Session of the 17th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) closed on Wednesday with a pledge to deepen political reform.(Xinhua Photo)

The meeting is the last important gathering before the annual NPC and CPPCC sessions next week.

It recommended two lists of leadership candidates for approval in the upcoming two sessions.

One is the list of candidates for state leaders who will be proposed to the National People's Congress. The second lists possible leaders of the National Committee of the People's Political Consultative Conference.

Members also discussed a draft opinion on the reform of administrative systems, and a draft plan on the restructuring of central departments under the State Council. The latter will be recommended to the National People's Congress for approval.

It was agreed the work of the NPC and the CPPCC must be enhanced and improved important for consolidating the ruling position of the party, and to develop socialist democracy.

The reform of political systems has been steady and positive. Thirty years after the opening up policy, great transformation has taken place and changes on the economic and social horizons are beyond recognition. The current political system has yet to match progress made in social and economic areas.

The 17th National Party Congress outlined plans and objectives to deepen political reforms. Members said promoting socialist democracy is to boost society's unity and harmony. The CPC should play a leading role in coordinating reform procedures, while ensuring the power of the nation belongs to its people.

They emphasized the significance of reforming administrative systems, describing it as a vital part in the cause of the country's political reform, as well as the inevitable trend in developing socialist market economy and socialist democracy.

Members said administrative reform is to establish a government that serves its people. A government that stresses the progress of science, cares for the livelihood of its people, and integrates various departments for higher efficiency, more openness and the ability to discipline itself.

Relief efforts concerning snow-related disasters in the southern parts of the country were reviewed praising the achievements made in rebuilding the affected regions. The determination in combating natural disasters should continue to deal with future difficulties, and lessons should be learnt to prevent major disasters and emergencies.

Finally, members agreed that since the 17th Party Congress held last October, the party and the nation had been successful in promoting all-round construction in the economy, politics, culture and society.And that all CPC members should help promote party construction, which is the primary responsibility of CPC committees at all levels.

(CCTV.com February 28, 2008)