"Relying on the working class whole heartedly is the fundamental guideline of our party," it quoted Wei as saying.
No public mention was made of private entrepreneurs, but reliance on the working class has started to shift in political spheres as the Communist rulers recognize the need to broaden their legitimacy in the burgeoning private sector.
Xinhua said earlier this month four private businessmen would be among the 997 people awarded the May 1 Labor Medal, a clear sign that China is pressing ahead with plans to open its doors to those once branded exploiters.
President Jiang Zemin said last July the party planned to admit entrepreneurs into its ranks in a bid to modernize the party.
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