Nation navigates tricky waters

Reform has been the catchphrase of China ever since the Third Plenary Session of the 11th CPC Central Committee was held 35 years ago. The endeavor brought the country from the brink of collapse to being the world's No.2 economy.

But will reform produce the same magic result in China in future decades? Observers and the public are doubtful whether the ruling CPC has the willingness to advance reform given powerful interest groups and diverse public opinion.

Though the prospect of reform has received great popular support, it requires much stronger political determination and more sophisticated political skills to make it happen than in past decades.

The Decision on Major Issues Concerning Comprehensively Deepening Reforms was released on November 12 when the Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee concluded. The document lays down a grand framework of reform for the next decade.

Internationally, China is playing a more important role as a regional power, but pressures have grown alongside its rise. President Xi Jinping proposed to build a new type of great power relationship during meeting with his counterpart US President Barack Obama in June. It is China's suggestion to avoid the historical tragedy of a clash between a rising and an existing power. In the years to come, non-traditional security, especially violent terrorism, will become a grave challenge for Chinese authorities.

Domestically, the central government has to tread a careful path to break the stagnancy but secure the stability of the society. In the Decision released by the Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee, the market's "decisive role" has been stressed, which is hoped to give continuous momentum for China's economic growth.

The rule of law is already a widely accepted concept in Chinese society. From abolishing the reeducation through labor system, to the trial of several top political leaders, the public has been feeling more confident in the nation's transition to the rule of law. Whether the CPC can win the battle against corruption will ultimately decide its performance. The leadership has launched a sweeping campaign against graft and official extravaganza. The public is hoping to see the pledges of caging the power truly realized.

But the ruling party shouldn't expect applause accompanying each reform measure as it is facing a much more diverse and discerning public opinion. It will be a test of the government's wisdom, as well as of the rationality of the society. Here we present 2013 year-end special issue, "Year of Promise," for you to judge the next stage of reform.