From the Readers

China must make its own choice

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-10-20 07:56

The 17th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) opened its fifth plenary session in Beijing on Oct 15 to discuss the nation's 12th Five-Year Plan (2011-2015), which has raised concerns in the West about China's politics. But in my opinion, some Western politicians and scholars have always been prejudiced against China's political reform.

The fact is, China has a strong desire to promote political reform, and it has made some undeniable progress in the past 30 years, such as establishing an accountability mechanism and information disclosure system. Although there is still much to be desired, it is unfair to deny the government's endeavors on this issue. But as a developing country with a large population and special social conditions, China must make its own choice on political reform and not follow the Western path.

Most Chinese people prefer gradual political reform rather than violent change to avoid any social unrest. The West should respect Chinese people's wishes more, rather than criticize and interfere in China's internal affairs.

Chris, via e-mail

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(China Daily 10/20/2010 page9)