A positive sign of progress in China

By Michael J.W. Stickings

From the BBC:

China's parliament has wrapped up its annual session, passing a landmark law to increase private property rights.

It also approved a bill ending preferential tax treatment for foreign firms, setting a standard rate of 25%.

Premier Wen Jiabao ended the session as he had begun it last week, promising a move to more sustainable growth.

He also raised issues such as corruption, regional ties and international fears over China's military build-up.

Very good. Now how about some democracy and human rights?