China and party discipline: which way is China heading?

                                                              Comrade XI

 

                                                                 Comrade Jiang

                                                               Comrade Hu

”We have advanced reform with the fundamental purpose of making our nation stronger and more prosperous. We are aiming to achieve a higher degree of impartiality and justice in society so that people can live a better life.

Reform is a great cause that calls for common commitments and strenuous efforts from all of us. Under the reform and opening up, we have already made countless spectacular achievements. I firmly believe that the Chinese people will achieve even greater heights than before.

More than 7 billion people inhabit the planet Earth. We are all in the same boat and must keep watch and help each other to achieve common development.”

Above saying is of Comrade Xi Jingping who in his new years adress stressed common development, since China PR is the largest developing country in this world there will always remain a great interest in how the nation forges ahead with cooperation with other developing countries. As development in industry speeds on there has been reports of a slight backfire considering the great amount of emissions. Comrade XI as secteritary of the CPC has said that purity in ideology is essential to pull off the party’s historic mission. In his speech entitled work solidly and painstakingly to perserve party unity he came to qoute Lenin in saying ” "Our task is to maintain our party's steadfastness and purity. We must raise, raise, and raise again the reputation and effectiveness of our members". Marxist parties place so much emphasis on party purity because it is key to maintaining the party's political character, its vitality and energy, and therefore its ability to carry out its historic mission.

The saying comes in a time were the dealing with corruption has become accute. The only problem is that there is a limitation in marxism as a world view in over emphasising the role of the working class as vanguards of the revolution and over emphasising economic development. Maos biggest mistake was mixing up idealist attituteds and over emphasising them over the countries practical conditions. Comrade Deng saw to the needs of the times and the limitations of a one sided economy, as it is written in his book fundamental principles in present day china in a discussion with then Zimbabwe PM comrade RG MUGABE. ”China did the mistake och trying to plunge ahead to fast” Under Comrade Jiangs leadership we saw a different emphasis, for as he said speaking at harvard university(!!)

"Sunlight is composed of seven colors; so is our world full of colors and splendor. Every country and every nation has its own historical and cultural traditions, strong points and advantages. We should respect and learn from each other and draw upon others' strong points to offset one's own deficiencies for achieving common progress"

IT has been said in the biography on his achievements that comrade Jiang was different in his outlook from his predessors and a gear towards speaking about the whole society and world in interaction not only ”working  class” or masses. Hu Jintao maintained this view but also launched a socialist core value system and tried to formulate his concept Scientific development along side Marxism Leninnism Mao Zedong thought and Deng Xiaopeng theory, in meaning that the concept of the three represents fromulated by Comrade jang must also keep in line with the times. It is indeed difficult to speak about ’the masses’ in a country that has 50 different ethnic groups, and even if MAO ZEDONG THOUGHT, was proven effective as a tool during the anti colonial struggle, it’s ideals are hard to implement and put into reality in todays China PR, because of the pratical reality with the advancment of the productive forces which as Comrade Jingping means can be both the countries strength an achllies heal i.e the industrial expansion and inevitable rising of contamenation. It will br interestingto see how Jingping handles the issue of party discipline and whether can maintain the succesful course of mutual benefit through exchange with other countries, or if he gets stuck on this party discpline line, it’s to early to tell, but we will keep our eyes open, which way is China heading, from thse speeches it remains a bit difficult to decipher, and the last word has not been said on the subject.

A Deep Insight to the Dynamics of Soviet Government Beyond the Prejudice of Western Imperialism

A Deep Insight to the Dynamics of Soviet Government 

Beyond the Prejudice of Western Imperialism

a review of the book “Human Rights in Soviet Society” by Jan Freidun Taravosh

December 21st-22nd 2009

“There was no example and experience to draw upon, means were lacking and wars interfered. How we began, what difficulties and obstacles we surmounted and what we finally achieved are what this book is about”

-Konstantin  Ustinovich Chernenko

Introduction:

Konstantin Chernenko who grew up in Siberia during the serfdom of then Czarist Russia, uses the book Human rights in Soviet Society to provide the reader with a deeper understanding of life in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics drawing from the historical experience of the days of Serfdom in the Czarist empire, the the days of the Great October Revolution and socialist construction in the midst of world wars and imperialist pressure during the cold war.

Comrade Chernenko providing a deeper understanding of life in the soviet union

The Author presents even the newcomer to the subject with easy to access information. Although Comrade Chernenko several times refers to author such as Marx and Engels and other soviet leaders such as Brezhnev and Lenin, one does not have to be a specialist in scientific socialism to understand the basic  meaning of this book. 

Socialism, Capitalism and the Different Views of Human Rights

In introducing the subject the author makes clear the reasons why Human rights is perceived differently in capitalist society and explains what are the basic characteristics of these differences. Against the backdrop of U.S Imperialist vilification campaigns, which relentlessly attacks anything beyond the realms of imperialism. Chernenko explains the basis of this demonising campaign by saying: “Western propagandists try to present imperialism as a champion of democracy, humanness and justice. they lay particular stress on the ‘innate’ rights of man unconcerned with any socio-economic foundation. In turning to the special characteristics of development in soviet society the other does refer briefly to the basic concepts of scientific socialism such as dialectics and historical but does so not in such a way that the text becomes too theoretic, or too hard to access even for novice readers.

The books strength lies in that the book fully reveals a more diversified picture of Soviet government, far beyond the one sided perceptions that persist in the west. For instance the basic structure of the councils is explained, as is the organic unity of rights and duties in Soviet Society, which the author explains by saying the reader may ask on what basis the defenders of human rights make their attacks on socialism. “What they don’t like is the provision of the USSR constitution” which says: ‘Enjoyment by citizen of their rights and freedoms must not be to the detriment of the interests of the society and state or infringe upon the rights of other citizens, They regard the organic unity of citizens’ rights and duties as an ‘intolerable limitation’ of the rights of the individual. 

Chernenko answers swiftly to such claims by clarifying that the same relation between rights and duties is clarified in the universal declaration of human rights. In this way cherneko reveals that it is in fact rampant individualism that runs counter to the concept of democracy and human rights, not collectivism which remains a strong foundation for democracy.

An Rare Insight to the Diverse Dynamics of Soviet Society.

By  western historians and imperialist, The USSR was and still is (for the most part) referred to as a country isolated from the rest of the world, however Chernenko reveals it’s quite the contrary and apart explaining the basic concepts of governance  and life in the USSR. The government structure is explained at state level and grassroots level  alike chapters like “All Power to the Soviets” and The organisations of the working people, the dynamic life in the multiethnic society on the basis  is being dealt with in the chapter on friendship and fraternity, and one chapter is focused on the emancipation of women. apart from giving the reader a more dynamic insight of soviet society far from the one sided perspective dominant in the west, also proving that The USSR was far from isolated from the western world, comrade Chernenko makes a clear comparison between the electoral system of the United states and Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, having been elected a deputy to the supreme soviet since 1966, the author shows that he knows what he is talking about. At the same time for one thing the truly progressive side of socialism is clarified in a way that it’s rarely talked about - for one thing did you know that the USSR as the first country in the world stipulated laws on sustainable development and environmental protection - and speaking of human rights this book duly clarifies the right to work, the right to education  and access to culture as a basic human rights  and as such it is a very enlightening and enjoyable read, a book that moves far beyond the prejudice of western imperialism and reveals a different side of the Soviet Union. 

Worth nothing is that at a the time of the Cold War demonising campaigns from the imperialist camp were hurled at the Soviet Union - nevertheless Comrade Chernenko stresses the importance of cultural exchange with western nations. As such this book is a true eye opener and I recommend it to anyone.

 

Jiang Zemin, P.R China and the development of an all-around of a well-to-do society

  Jiang Zemin, P.R China and the development of  an all-around   of a well-to-do society

A review of the Book “On The Three Represents” By Jiang Zemin

By Jan Freidun Taravosh 20th of December 2009

“Communism can only be realized on the basis of a fully  developed and highly advanced socialist society.”

Jiang Zemin

As a vast developing country aiming to develop socialism with Chinese characteristics in today’s multi polar world, the people of the China P.R in the 21st century find themselves in an unprecedented phase of dynamic development. This development is diversified and versatile but not much attention is given to it in the western media. The western establishment still maintain a very stereotyped and one sided view of  Chinese Society.

An in-depth look at Socialism with Chinese characteristics in the 21st century

In his book On The three represents, Comrade Jiang Zemin gives the reader a rare opportunity to get a more in-depth view of the all around development of The People’s Republic China.

as far as the historical development of political theory is concerned Comrade Jiang Refers both to classic works by Marx and Engels such as Critique of the Gotha programme, the communist manifesto and Critique of the political economy and works by other Chinese politicians like Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping, but whether you are an experienced scholar of Scientific Socialism or not “On The three represents” in dealing with the all around development of society speaks to anyone. While classic works of the founders of Marxism is mentioned and basic concept such as historical materialism and labour value and the correlation between foundation and superstructure, there is no need to be a expert in scientific socialism  to understand the contents of this book. the main focus of this book is the three represents I.E the productive forces the culture, and the overwhelming majority of the people. Comrade Jiang touches Chinese History also, but one does not have to be a history expert to understand the main aspects of this book. In reading it, the reader will get a wonderful insight in the fields of social and political development, management, education and culture as well as anti corruption. Interestingly the issue of disintegration of the union of soviet socialist republics, and the construction of socialism in different times is  analysed, and pressing issues in today’s china such as dynamic development of the productive forces cadre education and the fight against corruption. Thanks to Jiang, the reader gets a first hand account of the dynamic developments happening in the biggest development country in the world. While Human society has entered has entered the 21 century our country has entered a new period of development characterized by the all-around the  of a well-to-do society and acceleration of the socialist modernization drive. Comrade Jiang, in turning to the specific challenges facing the Chinese Society under the present era. “with our vast country, huge party membership and complex society it is impossible for us to be immune from all problems. but we should make sure to minimize  the problems”

in turning to the relation between the political leaders and the grass roots movement, Jiang, like Comrade Mao Zedong before him, stresses the relation between the party and the masses, “make in depth studies and investigations of what is really going on, and adopt measures to step up the work and promote party building in a down to earth manner” 

The Importance of Engaging Society Building With a Wholesome Perspective

Jiang also stresses social development in a wholesome perspective, in providing guidance for society building

  does so in a way which is not heard of that often in the west on page 26. Jiang explains: “We should observe the inherent rules governing the contradictions of the productive forces versus the relation of production  and the economic base versus the superstructure during the current stage of historical development and guard against all forms of subjectiveness and one-sidedness so as to do an even better job.” 

Turning to political theory  Comrade Jiang, stresses that political theory can never be adapted mechanically and stresses how the concept of the three represents, answers to the current phase of development the country finds itself in (see page 29): “in building socialism the Chinese  way we do not have written answers to many of the questions involved and we have to seek answers from dissecting and summing up new situations and practices by applying the basic Marxist principles”

On the Three Represents Gives the Reader a Chance to Understand China Without the Prejudice

ON THE THREE REPRESENTS is a great book and thanks to facilitation by the foreign languages publishing house of Beijing we get directly from the source material, from modern day China without the prejudice.

 

While the book may be rare it is never the less an essential read for anyone who wants to have a broader understanding of society building in the People’s Republic of China or scientific socialism in general. Overall development is an ever present theme, for as Comrade Jiang explains “Development is the absolute need this is a strategic concept we must stick to consistently this question should be viewed not only economically but also politically” and more over.  “Communism can only be realized on the basis of a fully  developed and highly advanced socialist society” 

The book is also great because it dispels many stereotyped conceptions of the Chinese people in general and Chinese society in particular. The book is easy to read, and deals with a very timely subject for everyone who wishes to know more about the  biggest developing country in the world, the important thought of the three represents was enshrined in the CPC constitution in 2002, as I said you by know means have to be an expert on the subject, a broader understanding of development in the world is to everyone's benefit. to be honest you do not even have to be a socialist or acquainted with the principles of scientific socialism, cadre education or democratic centralism beforehand.  Ask your local library for it, it’s a great and enlightening read!

The Hong Kong Question Clarified

The Hong Kong Question  Clarified

 A Review of On the Question of Hong Kong

By Jan Freidun Taravosh  16th of December 2009.

“Let’s Apply Ourselves to work with one heart and one mind"

- Deng Xiaoping

The Hong Kong region once a British colony was reunited with the People’s Republic of China in 1997 and brought a new dynamic into Chinese Society. How was the reunification carried out and what made the smooth transition possible, what role does The Hong special Administrative region play for Chinas overall development and how does Hong Kongs colonial heritage interplay with socialism with Chinese characteristics. All questions are answer in this book, which advocates broad unity and development.  Authored by Deng Xiaoping the Chinese leader who came up with the one country two system policy which provided a solid foundation for a peaceful transfer from the colonial authorities,  Hong Kong as a special administrative region maintains a large amount of autonomy which corresponds to the specific conditions and requirements of the china PR, as a development country. Due to Hong Kong’s colonial heritage and history as a sea port town it’s economic infrastructure difference somewhat from that of mainland china. Studying the nature of the Hong Kong question removes many misconceptions of The people’s republic of China as a one dimensional society and further Comrade deng explains this without any complications.

The book teaches us that , one cannot always apply political theory by going by the book but must take reality into account in doing so - Comrade Deng takes the Chinese reality a large multiethnic country into account stresses the need for political stability and stable economic development and makes clear how a economic system cannot not be copied and applied mechanically. This is a fact proven by history. Turning to the specific conditions of Hong Kong Comrade Deng explained: “in addition to stable economic development, Hong k needs a stable political system. As I have said, at present Hong Kong has a political system that is differ from the ones in Britain  and united states and will not copy any western system in the future arbitrarily copying western systems would cause unrest”

When Deng formulated the policy of one country two systems, he had a broad sighted definition of national unity in mind, i.e he motivated his position by explaining how forcing a political system on one another will only cause unrest and instability. Taking into account the Chinese realities and the realities of Hong Kong was taking in to account, and thus made a smooth transition from colonial power to sovereignty possible, without alienating the general public, or causing conflict, but instead promoting mutual understanding and cultural exchange on the basis of mutual benefit. Turning to the specific conditions that the people’s republic finds itself in as a developing country as in with the question of reunification, Comrade Deng as always stressed the need of thinking out of the box when it comes to developing the productive forces and the economy.  “we have opened some cities to the outside world on condition that  socialist econonomy remains dominant there. These cities will not change their socialist nature on the contrary the policy of opening to the outside  world will favour the growth of the socialist economy there” The hong Kong special administrave region place a unique role in the dynamic society that is the People’s Republic of China although a short pamflett 62 pages exluding the footnotes the book is as easy to read as it is informative, the book in an easily acessable way shows that there is far more  diversity to the China PR compared to what is usually recognised in the west. One for instance chapter in the book explains the basic difference of the Socialist democracy according to chinese realities and the western bourgiose and  democracy. the taiwan question is also breifly introduced anf question that would be further elaborated by Comrade Jiang Zemin in later years

 

This book was published by foreign languge press in 1993 and is a great,  inspirational and educational   read I two used to have a very one sided view on china before, but this was one of the books that really changed this for me. Comrade Jiang explains how the concept of one country and two systems was developed answering to the chinese realities and development conditions, this is important to keep in mind when reading this book -  and remeber think out of the box! this book shows a dynamic side of the Chinese society which is rarely talked about in the west, and as such it is a very enlightening read. It is good to know the basis of scientific socialism and chinese history before reading it, yet one does not have to be an expert, and the foot notes are helpful for new comers to the subject. students of history or international relations will take intrest in the except provided here from the deliberates between the central people’s Governent and the U.K. Students of Scientific Socialism will especially be delighted to find Comrade dengs speech to the Central advisory commision of the Chinese communist party from 1984, The book was translated into english by bureau for the compilation and translation of works, of Marx,Engels, Lenin and Stalin under the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China  in other words it’s directly from the source.

 to put it short Highly recommended!. The basic principles are easily summed up

“our basic position on the question of Hong Kong is clear there are three major issues involved one is sovereignty another is the way in which china will administer Hong Kong as to maintain prosperity [...] and still another is the need for Chinese and British governments to hold appropriate discussions on ways to avoid major disturbances in Hong Kong. [...]"

 The Essense of unity is brought up the simplest of terms that i think anyone can relate to, for as Deng explains, “we have a slogan ‘ long live the great unity of the Chinese Nation’ Right? So long as we stand on  side of the Chinese nation and help  safeguard its   general interests, all of us regardless of our different political views and including those who critizise the Communist Party can unite.”

this is what makes it such a wonderful book - the content is acessible to anyone so don’t be a stranger!

The Delicate Balance of Power and the Quest for Sustainable Peace in face of Imperialist Pressure During the Cold War

 The Delicate  Balance of Power

 and the Quest for Sustainable Peace in face of Imperialist Pressure During the Cold War

A review of the book “Our Aim is Preserve Peace”

by Jan Freidun Taravosh December 13th-14th

“A world without arms that is the ideal of Socialism”

Yuri Andropov

Introduction: 

During my student days at Malmö Univeristy a couple of years ago I engaged studies on the subject  disability and culture. discussing  culture at university during the our source material  to my disappointed was more or less limited to western sources (Sweden, UK, U.S) I started scouting for alternative sources and this is when I found this book. At the time I had no idea Yuri Andropov had ever published books and to my delight it was very easy read.

    

The Quest for Austainable peace in face of imperialist pressure

 in the primary sections  Yuri Andropov in the primary sections deals with the delicate issues such as  arms race, Détente  and the quest for peace and stability and in this book. Yuri Andrpov deals with the state of the world in his speech during a plenary meeting of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in November 1982. 

In face of a delicate situation in world politics internally and externally Comrade Andropov stressed the importance of Unity. “Unity is our strength and our promise for ultimate success”

Further in the same speech Comrade Andropov stressed the fact that: “A World without arms that is the ideal of Socialism”  interestingly enough although the USSR was signatory to the Warsaw treaty Comrade Andropov in contemplating such issues as the quest for  world peace and security still comes to admit that the group of states that created the non alignment movement is growing in importance. Other than dealing with the general guidelines in dealing with the nuclear threat, safeguarding peace and stability or maintaining international diplomatic relations. Comrade Andropov also uses a section of the book to present a lecture on the teachings of Karl Marx and a Few Questions on Building Socialism in the USSR 1983. 

The Origin of Marxism - Leninism

In his lecture Andropov explains without any complication how the name of Lenin is inseparable from that of Marx. Andropov explains how Leninism is a necessary development of the revolutionary ideology awsering to the trend of the times and does so in the following   words “Leninism is Marxism during the Era of Imperialism and  Proletarian revolutions  during the collapse of the colonial system, during the era of humanities transition from capitalism to socialism.”  Andropov makes clear that Leninism provided the basic strategy for the socialist revolution pointing out that the October Revolution triumphed during new historic conditions which did not exist in Marx lifetime. Leninism as a revolutionary component of scientific socialism in the era of imperialism thus provided the correct path for the success of the October Revolution.

Socialism is not a matter of abstract ideals

Comrade Andropov also  stresses  Marx teachings was never about abstract ideals, but rather the product of an analysis of the objective contradictions of large scale capitalism. Furthermore he explains that the revolution expresses itself differently in different countries and in different times, i.e he makes clear that there is more than one definition of what a socialist society looks like. Comrade Andropov explains “ Everywhere where Proletarian revolutions have triumphed, public ownership, which  established in one form or the other has become the main factor for the existing socialism it’s foundation and progress."  

The point made that Andropov  to makes in his lecture on building socialism in USSR 1983 is that the basic principles of Scientific socialism must always correspond to the specific  development conditions in the given nation - hence the term public ownership in one form or the other.

This is as true today as it was in 1983. 

Andropov also deals with the subject of  the relation work and culture in socialist society in this book and explains how socialism successfully removes age old barriers between the two.

Conclusion:

As noted this book was published in 1983 at a time were the balance of power was delicate and the quest for sustainable peace faced many challenges in face of imperialist pressure. 

The book was written in the time of the arms race and thus the book also deals with security issues and international relations in general. 

All in All I think it is a very good read, and would recommend it to anyone.  worth pointing out is that while Yuri Andropov is not talked about that often,  this does not make this book any less essential.  while some may argue that the parts of the book dealing with the arms race and nuclear threat seems a little bit out of fashion these days, I for one do not agree reading about the soviet point of view on these issues is a rare treat.  Regardless Andropov’s lecture on a few questions concerning the building of socialism in the USSR 1983 is especially worthwhile.   I would warmly recommend reading “our aim is to preserve peace to anyone , it’s a great read. Andropov, now who would have thunk it? 

For most people in the west the author of this great book is nothing more than a foot note in  history of the Cold War.

Chinese Socialism and the Diversified Economy as Explained by Comrade Jiang; A Short Presentation

Chinese Socialism and the Diversified Economy as Explained by Comrade Jiang 

A Short Presentation 

by Jan Freidun Taravosh December 14th 2009

“ever since the day I joined the revolution, I've been cherishing the ideal to achieve Communism.

 And I don't believe this is a fading concept.”

- Jiang Zemin

Introduction:

 As Socialism with Chinese characteristics does differ a lot from the general and stereotyped view of Socialism in the West many people in the west remain largely unaware of the true dynamics of the Chinese Economy. This article seeks to bring further understanding on this subject. A  portion of this article is based on a CBS interview with Jiang Zemin dating back to 1997  all quotes are from this article. The main focus of my article here is to bring the reader a deeper understanding of Chinese Socialism and the specific dynamics of the economy in The People’s Republic. I decided to write this article because I think the general perception persisting in the west concerning the economy in China PR is  all too one sided and I am also of the opinion that the western perception does not reflect reality. All quotes are in italics.

Comrade Jiang explains the Basic Characteristics of the Chinese Economy

While in the United States on an official  state visit aiming to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and The People’s Republic, in October 1997 - the then President of the Central People’s Government Comrade Jiang Zemin and General Secretary of CPC spoke open heartedly about culture and political system. The interviewer  a CBS reporter named Jim Lehrer , asked among other things about the economic and political system of China - and needless to say  more clarity concerning  these issues is needed in the west.

China PR a Developing Country Going Through a Dynamic Development Process.

in the interview Jaing explained in very few words signifies which are the main characteristics  of multi dimensional Chinese society. Far from the Western stereotype. Comrade Jiang explained how the Chinese economy is diverse and dynamic, and most of all contrary to common misunderstanding, due biased reporting  The People’s Republic is in fact going through a dynamic development process. 

To give a clearer understanding of the situation on the ground Comrade Jiang explained: “Different countries have different historic tradition, cultural tradition, and level of economic development.” in stressing this fact Jiang  made clear that one must have an open mind as to understand that no countries look exactly the same, and that many factors determine the course of development for the given country.  

Turning to the side of economic development Comrade Jiang made clear the unique characteristics of the Chinese society which is often over simplified or ignored by journalists in the west: “In our endeavor to develop our economy, we will work to achieve a diversified form of ownership, with public ownership playing the predominant role. Under this mechanism we have the public ownership, collective ownership, private ownership, and even individual ownership.” 

The above statement clarifies the dynamic nature of the economy and clarifies   some basic principles of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics, Jiang also to time to clarify the basic political structure of the People’s Government, which as it happens may differ from western traditions of governance corresponds well with the specific conditions of the China PR.

“ With the founding of The People's Republic of China, the constitution of new China has been formulated which stipulates that the National People's Congress is the supreme power-holding organ in China.

At the same time, we also have the multiparty cooperation system with the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party and we also have The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference. And we have our state council which serves as the executive branch.”  

The above explains the Chinese reality of governance, and also gave further enlightenment to people who had previously no clear understanding of the specific features of the Central People’s Government in China. 

Jiang also took some time reflecting over the Chinese experience of building socialism and communism. He spoke from the heart and also made clear that one cannot apply political  theory in a mechanic way.

“As the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party, ever since the day I joined the revolution, I've been cherishing the ideal to achieve Communism. And I don't believe this is a fading concept.

However, I believe it's fair to say that perhaps in the past people had too much ideals. And now we need to work under the initiative of Deng Xiaoping. And we should also follow the concept, which I would like to quote a Chinese saying which is a thousand mile journey need to start from the first step. And, therefore, as I counted out in the report I delivered to the 15th Party Congress, we are now under the primary stage of Socialism. And, in the words of Mr. Deng Xiaoping, we are working to build a Socialism with Chinese characteristics.”

In this way Comrade Jiang makes clear that society building must always correspond to the Chinese realities. 

A few notes on Chine PR and international relations

 While Comrade Jiang as a representative of the Central People’s Government, and as a member of the CPC has ALWAYS been  a very prominent advocate for independence and sovereignty - This should not be misunderstood as the People’s Republic of China Shuns the Idea of cultural exchange and international cooperation. One example of this fact is that it was Comrade Jiang who stressed the importance of founding the Forum for China - Africa cooperation, on the basis of mutual respect, and mutual benefit, The above mentioned principles are applicable in all situations and is an ever-present component of Chinas foreign policy. 

The Paramount importance of maintaining the idea  Peace and mutual respect in  international relations 

Peace is also an ever present component of the foreign policy in China PR and thus the unmotivated fear that is often heard of in some circles in the world that the Chinese seek world supremacy of secretly plot to take over the world, can easily be dispelled if one is willing to shrug of all prejudice and listen to what the representatives of the Central People’s Government has to say about it. “we are working to build is a socialist market economy.

For instance, Germany is under the social market economy. And here in the United States it is the free capitalist economy. But this by no means stand in the way of the free exchange of trade between the two countries. Nor do we have the intention of exporting our socialism with Chinese characteristics to you here in the United States.

Comrade Jiang also spoke with the clarity on the paramount importance holding the principles of mutual under standing and  of non interference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations in high esteem by saying:  

“I believe most importantly there is a need for deep and mutual understanding about each other's situation. And dialogues can also be carried out on the basis of not interference in each other's internal affairs.”

Conclusion:

by studying China more closely I think anyone will be able to shrug of the most common stereotypes about China, and see China more for what it is, a dynamic society and not a strictly  one dimensional  society. I think everyone in the west can learn a thing or two from China, you don’t have to be a communist to realise this.  There is no point in denying what a knowledgeable person Comrade Jiang is. 

Regardless if you agree with everything he says or not, doing so would be an insult to the Chinese people. Regardless of what you may think of him personally there is no point in overlooking that he still has played an important role in developing modern day China - this is a fact and a reality which  simply be overlooked. I am of the opinion that Jiang is very right in stating that deep and mutual understanding is of paramount importance in today’s multi polar world. 

My point was in writting this article was to explain why I think  everyone should take note of what comrade Jiang has said and try to me more open minded and see the world for what it is and always keep in mind that different countries have different historic tradition, cultural tradition, and level of economic development. 

Hu Jintao's concerning Tibet - A Brief Presentation

Hu Jintao’s remarks concerning the 50th anniversary of the peaceful liberation of Tibet

A Brief Presentation 

By Jan Freidun Taravosh December 13th 2009

 ”Let us rally around the leadership of  the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Jiang Zemin at the core,  hold high the great banner of Deng Xiaoping Theory, take the  important thinking of the "Three Represents" as the guide, work  together unremittingly with one heart for a new socialist Tibet of unity, prosperity and civilization, and for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation!”   

 - Hu Jintao

Introduction:

Much has been said about China through out the years - but in the west a very one dimensional view of the Dynamic and multi ethnic society that is the People’s Republic of China still persists. 

Especially the question of Tibet's Autonomy has been infected with confusion in the western hemisphere and does not reflect the reality on the ground. The correlation between unity and diversity has not be understood and More over the history of feudal serfdom and theocratic conservatism that was the reality in ancient Tibet before liberation is fundamentally ignored in the west. In the west were tha dalai clique is perceived as an  somewhat “enlightened despotic regime” despite the fact that The Dalai Lama is  a bogus advocate for peace.  The biased view of the Western establishment has more to with the dalai clique regimes close connection with former colonial authorities than any real concerns for the well being of the people or the progress of humankind.

The Tibet issue and imperialist measures to destabilise the People’s Republic

 In western establishment media “concerns” about Tibet are used as an excuse to meddle in the internal affairs of the Chinese nation. In the west imperialist media often seek to misinform the general populace about the true dynamics of the Tibet issue and the history of Serfdom correlated to the colonial history of the region prior to the  liberation. All this is made in an effort to try and destabilise the People’s Republic of China and to plant seeds of discord in an effort to regain western influence over the region. The Central People governments position on the matter is rarely  -if ever-  talk about. Often it is spoken of only to ridicule the Chinese nation and to insult the Chinese People and it’s leaders. Not very much attention is given to the situation on the ground and the dynamic course of development spearheaded by the Central People’s Government. 

Hu Jintao’s remarks concerning the 50th anniversary of the peaceful liberation of Tibet

A Brief Presentation

During the time when Comrade Hu Jintao served as Vice President of the Central People’s Government of the People’s Republic of China Comrade Hu was invited to address the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the Peaceful liberation   of Tibet held in July 2001.

although hard to find in the west as if they are trying to hide truth of the  realities of Tibet this magnificent address can be found online. In his profound address Hu Jintao stresses the important of both broad based unity and embracing diversity in a way which is generally unheard of in the west.

“Tibet is a beautiful and richly endowed region of our great  motherland. The industrious and talented people of all ethnic  groups in Tibet have, in a long historical development, made  outstanding contributions to the creation of a glorious culture of the Chinese nation and creation of a unified multi-ethnic country. In the last half a century in particular, the Tibetan people have  written brilliant chapters in the development and progress of  Tibet and added new glory to the big family of our socialist  motherland. We feel profoundly proud of the past and immensely  confident about the future. Let us rally around the leadership of  the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Jiang Zemin at the core,  hold high the great banner of Deng Xiaoping Theory, take the  important thinking of the "Three Represent's" as the guide, work  together unremittingly with one heart for a new socialist Tibet of unity, prosperity and civilization, and for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation!”  

In stressing the fact of looking ahead to the future and working together in unity comrade Hu also underlined the importance that all people do not forget the history of serfdom which used to surround Tibet before liberation.

“Fifty years ago, the CPC Central Committee and Comrade Mao  Zedong, having correctly assessed the situation, made a far- sighted, resolute and significant policy decision to liberate  Tibet peacefully. The Central People's Government and the former  local government of Tibet signed the Agreement on Measures for the Peaceful Liberation of Tibet, thus bringing about the peaceful  liberation of Tibet. The peaceful liberation of Tibet was a major  event in modern Chinese history and an epoch-making turning point  in the course of development in Tibet. It symbolized that Tibet  once and for all cast off the yoke of imperialist aggression and  that the great unity of the Chinese nation and its great  reunification cause have entered a new period of development. It  ushered in a new era in which Tibet would turn from darkness to  light, from backwardness to progress, from poverty to affluence  and from seclusion to openness.”

Hu Jintao also took the opportunity to draw up a summarisation of the great attention the Central People’s Government and the People of China has given to developing Tibet, and described how this has turned an ancient feudal society into a a dynamic diverse and multiethnic society: “Over the past 50 years, Tibet has achieved a leap forward in  the historical development of social systems and embarked on a  socialist road. With the abolition of feudal serfdom, under which  the Tibetan people had long been suppressed and exploited,  millions of erstwhile serfs who did not even have the minimum of  human rights have now stood up and become masters of their own  fate. Today people of all ethnic groups are fully enjoying  political, economic, cultural and other rights and having complete control of their destiny.”

Moreover Hu explained the importance of gearing attention towards securing peace and stability in the region and strengthening unity on the basis of mutual assistance as an important perquisite for further development.

“People of all ethnic groups have worked  in unity and succeeded in foiling the separatist and disruptive  activities of the Dalai clique and anti-China forces in the world  time and again, and thus safeguarded stability in Tibet and  national unity and state security.  With the passage of 50 extraordinary years, Tibet of today  presents a scene of vitality and prosperity with economic growth,  social progress and stability, ethnic solidarity and solid border  defense. The people here are living and working in peace and  contentment”

Conclusion:

My uttermost aim with this article was to present a more insightful view of the Tibet issue, which unlike the established western view was not stripped away from it’s historical context, also I wanted the reader to be able to set aside all forms of prejudice take note of the official stand taken by the  Central People’s Government as it is. I wanted to present it going directly from the source, and thus when I have done so I hope have also been successful in dispelling the most common racial prejudice which continues to persist in the western bourgeoisie society towards the brave people of Chine and the leaders of the Central People’s Government of The People’s Republic of China. 

Hopefully this article has also brought the reader with a deeper understanding of the dynamics of Chinese Socialism which difference a lot from the one sided view established in the western media. 

Hu Jintao and The Socialist Core Value System: A Brief Presentation

Hu Jintao and The Socialist Core Value System

A Brief Presentation 

by Jan Freidun Taravosh 13th of December 2009

“Follow science; discard superstition”

- Hu Jintao

Introduction:

Following the Sixth Plenum of the 16th CPC CentralCommittee in 2006 at which the CPC highlighted the importance of creating a

socialist harmonious society. China View through the Central News Agency Xinua wrote a great article on the formulation The Core Socialist Value System, a basic concept formulated by General Secretary Hu Jintao who succeeds in crystallising the basic principles of the Socialist Core Values in a poetic yet uncomplicated way.

   Part I: Origins of The Core Socialist Value System

As a large development country with a giant population, the China PR finds itself in a peculiar position.

Recognising the fact that the multi ethnic nation which consists of more than 50 ethnic group is going through a dynamic process of development - The Core Socialist Value System has been developed as a means for advocating for Social Harmony it is accessible to everyone regardless of ethnicity. The system came into creation March 2006

 Part II:Interpreting the meaning of The Core Socialist Value System

(A): The basic Principles. 

First let us turn back to the aforementioned China View and reflect over the basic principles of the Core Socialist Value System.

The principles are as follows: 

   -- Love the country; do it no harm

   -- Serve the people; never betray them

   -- Follow science; discard superstition

   -- Be diligent; not indolent

   -- Be united, help each other; make no gains at other's expense

   -- Be honest and trustworthy; do not sacrifice ethics for profit

   -- Be disciplined and law-abiding; not chaotic and lawless

   -- Live plainly, work hard; do not wallow in luxuries and pleasures.

 The Central  theme is  Genuinely  people’s oriented politics which is created through broad unity. 

The Socialist Core Value System also makes clear that political stability is underpinned by honesty, and social commitment. The above signifies  the basic moral guidelines of the Socialist Society in China it calls on people to shun corruption and  at the same time  it also endorses The Scientific Development Concept.

 (B) Why was this core value system formulated?

Judging from the basic principles judging simply the words alone it is obvious that the principles of the value system corresponds well with the The Scientific Development Concept endorsed by the CPC as an important guideline for development at the most recent congress (the 17th congress 2007).

 Although the  consolidation of The Scientific Development Concept, is an important factor this does no however give the whole answer to the question posed above.

Both the The Scientific Development Concept and The Socialist Core Value system stresses the need for social harmony. I.E. both ideas originate from the same source and complement one another.

In the course of developing Socialism with Chinese Characteristics, the position of the CPC is clear, the importance of social harmony cannot be underestimated. This has a lot to do with the current phase of dynamic development the country finds itself in.

Returning  to Party Resolutions in relation to the publication of the socialist core value system which is quoted in the above mentioned article, the new challenges that have arisen in the course of Chinas economic development is being sighted as the main reason for formulating the Socialist Core Value System

  

 ”China's rapid economic development has led to significant changes

to the Chinese society and people's way of living and thinking.

Such unprecedented social changes have brought great vitality to

China's development and progress, but have resulted in various

contradictions and problems," 

The words from the article quoted above echoes Deng Xiaoping’s words that socialism is no easy job nevertheless the formulating of the Socialist Core Value System as indicated above has developed naturally to to the specific course of development that the multi ethnic nation finds itself in.

Efforts are thus being made to embody the Chinese society with the Socialist Core Value System in all sphere’s of society and public life.

The Central Committee in this context puts special weight on the importance of introducing this system in the fields of national education in the promotion of moral ethics and modernisation. The Author of The Socialist Core Value System Comrade Hu Jintao also stresses the importance of educating the Youth - thus one can come to the conclusion that the Value system was also authored especially with the needs of the youth in mind. 

Hu Jintao on the Correlation Between Social Harmony and Scientific Development

Hu Jintao on the Correlation Between Social Harmony and Scientific Development

By Jan Freidun Taravosh December 12th 2009

“Social harmony is an essential attribute of socialism with Chinese characteristics. 

Scientific development and social harmony are integral to each other and neither is possible without the other.”

- Hu Jintao

Introduction: 

In the course of reviewing the past years and the road ahead for the CPC at the 17th congress in 2007 The General Secretary of The CPC presented his report entitled “Hold High the Great Banner of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics and Strive for New Victories in Building a Moderately Prosperous Society in all Aspects”

Unprecedented Opportunities as well as Unprecedented Challenges

This thorough report Sketched up the task ahead for the CPC in further advancing the cause of Peace and Development, Yet as Comrade Hu rightly put it this cause is being pursued against the back drop of a complex global political arena:

“The world today is undergoing extensive and profound changes, and contemporary China is going through a wide-ranging and deep-going transformation. This brings us unprecedented opportunities as well as unprecedented challenges, with the formeroutweighing the latter. The whole Party must unswervingly hold high the great banner of socialism with Chinese characteristics and lead the people in starting from this new historical point, grasping and making the most of the important period of strategic opportunities, staying realistic and pragmatic, forging ahead with determination, continuing to build a moderately prosperous society in all respects and accelerate socialist modernization, and accomplishing the lofty mission bestowed by the times.”

Making the Most out of Strategic Opportunities

Comrade Hu spoke with clarity on the importance of making the most out of strategic opportunities but most of all He also clarified that one must maintain a dynamic perspective on development. 

Pointing out the positive side of the past five years Comrade Hu concluded: “The endeavor to make China an innovative nation registered good progress, with considerable improvement in the country's capacity for independent innovation. Notable achievements were scored in the construction of infrastructure including energy, transport and telecommunications facilities and other key projects. Manned spaceflights were successfully conducted. Fresh progress was registered in energy, resources, ecological and environmental conservation. The Tenth Five-Year Plan (2001-05) was fulfilled successfully and implementation of the eleventh is in smooth progress.”

 Comrade Hu correctly registered that great accomplishments had been made in the years since the last Congress yet The General Secretary never seized to stress the point that the political theory that guides the party must keep up with the times in this ever changing world.

“ To continue to build a moderately prosperous society in all respects and develop socialism with Chinese characteristics at the new stage of development, we must follow the guidance of Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of Three Represents and thoroughly apply the Scientific Outlook on Development.

The Scientific Outlook on Development is a continuation and development of the important thoughts on development advanced by the previous three generations of central collective leadership of the CPC and a concentrated expression of the Marxist world outlook and methodology with regard to development. It is a scientific theory that is in the same line as Marxism-Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought, Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of Three Represents and keeps up with the times. It is an important guiding principle for China's economic and social development and a major strategic thought that we must uphold and apply in developing socialism with Chinese characteristics.”

The Dynamic Importance of Socialist Culture

In this context Comrade Hu, as Comrade Jiang Zemin before him stressed  the dynamic importance of socialist culture: “Socialist Culture is thriving as never before, but the people have growing cultural needs and have become more independent, selective, changeable and diverse in thinking, setting higher requirements for the development of an advanced socialist culture. Our society has become evidently more dynamic, but profound changes have taken place in the structure of society, in the way society is organized and in the pattern of social interests, and many new issues have emerged in social development and management.”

When  Comrade Hu Jintao draws up the description of the true dynamics of Society what is revealed is something totally different from the traditionally  stereotyped and sterile view of a socialist state in the west. Yet with the multi ethnic  People’s Republic of China Being the largest populated country in the world the correlation between cohesiveness, Social Harmony and Broad Scientific development is essential in relation to this subject Comrade Hu spoke with clarity: “Social harmony is an essential attribute of socialism with Chinese characteristics. Scientific development and social harmony are integral to each other and neither is possible without the other”

Sustainable Development and the broad Dynamics of Development of The People’s Republic of China

In the mid 80’s Comrade Deng Xiaoping in his book “Fundamental issues” reflected over the fact that China in the past made the mistake of trying to plunge ahead to fast. It is obvious that the situation in which China PR still  finds it self is multi-facetted and complex. The Concept of Scientific Development naturally answered to the necessity of the times in endorsing sustainable development, and for the CPC and General Secretary Comrade Hu Jintao this means endorsing  all aspects of Sustainable Development, i.e. Political, Economic and Environmental. 

Political Sustainability

Therefore The Party sets a clear and realistic path to deal with sustainability in all these fields: “To realize social equity and justice is the Chinese Communists' consistent position and a major task of developing socialism with Chinese characteristics. In accordance with the general requirements for democracy and the rule of law, equity and justice, honesty and fraternity, vigor and vitality, stability and order, and harmony between man and nature and the principle of all the people building and sharing a harmonious socialist society, we will spare no effort to solve the most specific problems of the utmost and immediate concern to the people and strive to create a situation in which all people do their best, find their proper places in society and live together in harmony, so as to provide a favourable social environment for development.”

Economical Sustainability

Apart from the above the the perspective is clear also on what to do in the social economic sphere to  “Promote balanced development to ensure sound and rapid economic growth” 

Environmental Sustainability 

Environmental protection and resource conserving - as Comrade Hu explained it in his report-  also plays a key role for social development and thus a clear plan was drawn up to: ”Improve energy, resources, ecological and environmental conservation and enhance China's capacity for sustainable development. Adhering to the basic state policy of conserving resources and the environment is vital to the immediate interests of the people and the survival and development of the Chinese nation. We must give prominence to building a resource-conserving, environment-friendly society in our strategy for industrialization and modernization and get every organization and family to act accordingly. We will improve laws and policies to promote energy, resources, ecological and environmental conservation, and speed up the formation of systems and mechanisms for sustainable development. We will implement the responsibility system for conserving energy and reducing emissions. We will develop and extend advanced and appropriate technologies for conserving, substituting and recycling energy and resources and for controlling pollution, develop clean and renewable energy sources, protect land and water resources and set up a scientific, rational system for using energy and resources more efficiently. We will develop environmental conservation industries.” 

Conclusion:

  The Report dealth with many different subjects  which found common ground in the party’s quest for the versatile development of the  modern Chinese society. 

With his report General Secretary Hu Jintao presented a dynamic vision but not only that, more importantly in introducing the  the Scientific Development Concept which correnspondes fully with the Important Thought of The Three Represents Comrade Hu also provided a  pragmatic and realistic strategy that is in sync with Chinese realities so as much that it makes this vision a feasible reality. The Scientific Development Concept among other things identifies sustainable development as one of the most pressing issues in today’s world.