Beijing started to reshuffle full-ministerial-level posts, marking the beginning of Xi’s preparation for the leadership transition
Xi has worked to systematically place officials with technical backgrounds in defense sector in key local government positions.
Beijing is trying to draw a balance between retaliating against threats from foreign governments and ensuring foreign investments
Beijing passed the Hong Kong National Security Law right before the 23rd anniversary of the handover. This is for both symbolic and practical reasons.
Beijing has expedited local leadership rejuvenation by doubling the number of provincial vice governors under the age of 50