China’s party congress promises continuity, not change

BEIJING — The overarching theme emerging from China’s ongoing Communist Party congress is one of continuity, not change. The weeklong meeting, which opened Sunday, is expected to reappoint Xi Jinping as leader, reaffirm a commitment to his policies for the next five years and possibly elevate his status even further as one of the most powerful leaders in China’s modern history. THE NEW LEADERS It is customary for the party to unveil its top leadership for the next five years the day after the congress closes, with the small group named to the Politburo Standing Committee identified for the first time when they parade out on stage. As a follow-up to the party congress, China’s legislature will meet next year, probably in March.