Xi Jinping's Rise and Political Implications

The way in which China is selecting its top leaders is perhaps changing, reflecting some new socio-cultural trends in current Chinese elite politics. Xi Jinping has at least three things going for him: his princeling background, his clean reputation and his pro-business performance. However, before 2012 he has yet to pass several other tests before possibly stepping into Hu Jintao's shoes, especially those concerned with diplomatic affairs.