People's Daily carries an editorial today hailing the opening of the 17th National Congress of the CPC.

The twice-a-decade event opens this morning at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. It will last for seven days, until next Sunday.

The gathering opens a new chapter in the history of the CPC, marks a new stage in the building of socialism with Chinese characteristics and presents a new outlook on the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, reads the editorial, titled "Unswervingly follow the great course of socialism with Chinese characteristics".

It says the congress, held at a critical stage of China's reform and development, is of vital importance.

It will take the Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of "Three Represents" as guiding principles, thoroughly implement the "scientific outlook on development", carefully summarize the Party's work and achievements made since the 16th congress was held in 2002, sum up its experience in leading the country in building socialism with Chinese characteristics since China started to reform and open up in 1978, and map out work in the coming years, the editorial says.

It says the past 29 years witnessed China's transformation from a planned to a socialist market economy and improved people's lives.

"In the last five years in particular, China has scored even greater progress in its reform, opening up and building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects," it says.

The 16th CPC Central Committee, headed by Hu Jintao, has kept to the Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of the "Three Represents" and thoroughly implemented the scientific outlook on development to adapt Marxism to Chinese conditions and promote all-round, coordinated and sustainable social and economic development, it says.

The Central Committee has won further trust and support from Chinese people of different ethnic groups for "seeking development for the people, by the people and sharing the fruits of development with the people", it says.

"Practice has proven that building socialism with Chinese characteristics is the only correct course toward national prosperity, rejuvenation and the well-being of the people," it says, adding that it is the choice of the Party, the people and the times.

Xinhua

(China Daily 10/15/2007 page18)