2012-09-11

Updated: Xi Jinping disappears, but Li Keqiang is in the spotlight

(Update below)
I don't make much of the fact that Xi Jinping has missed four public appearances (yet). The only thing it confirms is that his snub of Secretary of State Clinton wasn't a snub. However, it is indicative of social mood, as rumors have started swirling.

While Xi is out of the spotlight, Li Keqiang is making news.

Chinese vice premier confident in economy
"The measures taken by the Chinese government for macro economic adjustment and control will play a conducive role in optimizing the Chinese economy's structure and therefore achieve stable and long-term growth," Li said, while conferring in Beijing with a delegation of the International Business Council headed by Klaus Schwab, executive chairman of the World Economic Forum.

...Li noted that China remains a developing nation, and will stay that way for quite a long time despite the fact that the total volume of its economy has become the second largest in the world, adding that more and more consumption needs have been created when the country is embracing further industrialization and urbanization.

"The consumption, on the other hand, will help the industrialization process in various sectors, especially the service sector," Li told the guests.
There isn't much news in the story, but what is notable is that this story appeared near the front of the newspapers today, complete with photo. There may be questions about Xi Jinping, but Li Keqiang is moving up.

Li has been talking about economic reform for several years now and he is the more important figure in terms of pushing reform. That said, if Xi is really out of the running for the leadership, it means there are behind the scenes negotiations and a new leader, opposed to Li's reforms, would probably replace Xi.

Update: The back injury story is gaining more ground. Here's Reuters: China's Xi not seen in public because of ailment: sources

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