Final preparations are under way in the Chinese capital ahead of a Communist Party congress that will see a new set of leaders unveiled.
All the delegates have arrived in Beijing for the meeting which begins the once-in-a-decade power transfer.
Security is tight across the city, with policemen checking passers-by and transport restrictions in place.
President Hu Jintao is expected to open Thursday's meeting with a work report on achievements and future goals.
Spokesman Cai Mingzhao said the congress "will be one of great importance, when China is in a crucial stage of building a modern and prosperous society in all respects, taking on reform and opening up, and accelerating the transformation of the growth pattern."
A commentary in Party mouthpiece the People's Daily said that the party was leading the nation on "a path towards national reju
