The chances of Vice-Premier Zhang Dejiang being appointed to the nation's most powerful ruling body this autumn have improved considerably after he was picked to lead the troubled southwestern municipality of Chongqing .
Being asked to take on the difficult task of succeeding the ousted Bo Xilai as the municipality's party secretary yesterday makes the 66-year-old Zhang a strong contender for a spot on the Politburo Standing Committee during the 18th party congress later this year.
Speaking at a meeting of Chongqing cadres after the surprising public announcement of Bo's downfall, Li Yuanchao, head of the party's Organisation Department, said the decision to appoint Zhang as party secretary was made through 'discreet consideration'.
'Comrade Zhang Dejiang is politically competent, fair, righteous, democratic and responsible,' Li said.
He also said Zhang possessed rich experience in handling complicated issues and he would lead Chongqing to greater progress under the party's leadership.
Seated beside Li during the meeting, Zhang said the appointment came with heavy responsibility and that he was glad to get the chance to serve the people of Chongqing.
