Chen Lingfu, a standing committee member of the 10th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and vice president of Nanjing Normal University, presented an overview of the achievements gained and paid tribute to the efforts made by the advisory body last year in an interview.
"Not a few significant strategies and plans adopted by the Communist Party were originally the brainchildren of our members while acting as top political advisors. This clearly indicates that our ruling party is taking on a more democratic governing style," said Chen.
"In the past year, our members were quite concerned about people's concerns and we indeed hope to do something to improve their well-being. Members took part in various political procedures in various forms. For example, we organized a string of discussions and workshops to address different issues. The most impressive thing we've done so far is to invite government officials to meet with us; we've had many open debates together. This greatly helped yield results. We are also happy to note that the CPPCC is ablaze with a galaxy of talents."
He singled out the sprit of the 17th National Congress of the Communist Party of China. "We felt it was a great honor to witness and also participate in one of China's most climactic political events," he said. Mr. Chen underscored that the current conference would endorse the central government and its plan to spread the benefits of rapid growth among all Chinese.
Mr. Chen also pointed out that the reform in China has ushered in a new phase - with issues varied as they are complex - so the advisory body would play a more active role. On the one hand, they plan to engage in more extensive discussions, workshops, surveys and researches. On the other hand, they will seek to enter into dialogues with the government directly and openly.
(China.org.cn by staff reporter He Shan, March 4, 2008)