On July 1, 2001, Chinese leader Jiang Zemin delivered a major address to celebrate the eightieth anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party.1 Although Jiang’s speech dealt with many issues facing the party, he particularly focused on its role during the period of socialism with Chinese characteristics. He emphasized the importance of economic development for China, and the lengthy historical process necessary to reach socialism. During this period, China would retain a so-called socialist market economy, and as this economy develops, stated Jiang, new social strata will play a key role.
“Entrepreneurs and technical personnel employed by scientific and technical enterprises of the non-public sector, managerial and technical staff employed by foreign-funded enterprises, the self-employed, private entrepreneurs . . . have contributed to the development of productive forces . . . in a socialist society through honest labor. . . They work together with workers, farmers, intellectuals, cadres, and the officers and men of the PLA. They are working for building socialism with Chinese characteristics.” Therefore, he stated, these private entrepreneurs should be eligible for membership in the Chinese Communist Party itself, the very vanguard of the working masses.2 Indeed all who are developing socialism with Chinese characteristics should be included in the party, stated Jiang. If they follow the party line and guiding principles, meet membership conditions and criteria, then they are eligible. Broadening the party membership will strengthen its influence in society and its cohesion, he concluded.

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