In an article published by People’s Daily and carried by The Paper on November 12, 2026, Li Shulei discussed how the Communist Party of China should strengthen study of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. The article is an argument for implementing party guidance, not an announcement of a new public policy.

Li cited a decision adopted at the 20th CPC Central Committee’s fifth plenary session on advancing full and strict Party governance. He said the decision calls for using the Party’s theories to strengthen members’ shared convictions. In his account, that work is intended to support Party members’ political commitment, ideological education and organizational unity, as well as the Party’s broader goals.

The article sets out three priorities for study: understanding the main content of Xi Jinping Thought, examining the positions and methods underlying it, and considering the values it conveys. Li then calls for members to read original texts, expand education and training methods, connect study with practical problems and field research, and deepen academic research into the theory. He also proposes using internet tools and artificial intelligence alongside in-person learning.

Li argues that study should help officials address practical issues, including challenges to high-quality development, public concerns and problems in Party building. These are recommendations made in his article, rather than reported outcomes of the proposed work.

Original article: The Paper.