President Xi Jinping has been anointed "core" leader of China, a title that has boosted his profile.

The new title puts him at par with iconic Chinese leaders including Deng Xiaoping and Mao Zedong. It was bestowed during a four-day meeting of senior party officials. The communique announcing the title highlighted the importance of the collective leadership.

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The phrase "core leader" was coined by Deng, who had also declared Jiang Zemin and Mao Zedong to be core leaders as well. It also means that being a "core leader" makes them enjoy absolute authority.

However, in President Xi Jinping's case, there has been indications that his powers may not be absolute. The communique announcing his new title stated that all party members "closely unite around the Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping as the core."

According to People's Daily, the party's main newspaper, a powerful center of authority is of utmost importance for the country and one-party rule. In an editorial, the newspaper said the new title provides an assurance about the strengthening of the party leadership.

The new title has marked significance and it shows Xi consolidating his position ahead of an important party congress next year.

The congress will elect a new standing committee during the event. It will also see many of the leaders retiring as five of the seven members of the Politburo Standing Committee are due to step down.

It is highly likely that the congress of China will confirmPresident Xi Jinping's reappointment as national leader for the next five years. Or, it may also discuss the issue of successor to Xi. 

TagsXi Jinping, Deng Xiaoping, Mao Zedong