China's Xi highlights 'big picture' in reform drive

BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday called on officials to view the country's reform drive in the context of "a larger picture" in order to deepen reforms.

Xi made the remarks at the 12th meeting of the Central Leading Group for Deepening Overall Reform, during which he called on authorities to "grasp the larger picture of reform" and fully implement the "Four Comprehensives", an ideological framework that identifies the main pillars needed to support the rejuvenation of China.

"Four Comprehensives" refer to comprehensively building a moderately prosperous society, deepening reform, advancing the rule of law, and strictly governing the Party.

"Authorities should subordinate themselves to the overall situation and have the courage to face up to challenges," Xi said.

An overall plan to promote innovation in reform in selected regions was adopted at the meeting. Members of the leading group also agreed that authorities must place scientific and technological innovation at the heart of the drive.

"Authorities should break down structural and institutional obstacles, advance sci-tech, management, branding and business models and promote innovation in military-civic integration," according to a statement issued after the meeting.

IMPROVING LAW ENFORCEMENT

At the meeting, the group approved a pilot reform plan for public interest litigation and a document on improving legal aid.

Describing legal aid as a "key project", it urged "efficient and quality" legal aid that caters to people's practical needs so they can "feel fairness and justice in every case".

Legal aid should be provided, with lower costs and requirements, to help disadvantaged groups solve basic problems in life and work, according to the group.