from all walks of life.[53] These consultations contribute, at least in theory, to the formation of the countrys basic policy in the fields of political, economic, cultural and social affairs.[53] The CPCs relationship with other parties is based on the principle of long-term coexistence and mutual supervision, treating each other with full sincerity and sharing weal or woe.[53] This process is institutionalized in the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).[53] All the parties in the United Front support Chinas road to socialism, and hold steadfast to the leadership of the CPC.[53] Despite all this, the CPPCC is a body without any real power.[54] While discussions do take place, they are all supervised by the CPC.[54] Organization[edit] Main article: Organization of the Communist Party of China Central organization[edit] The 18th National Congress, convened in November 2012 The National Congress is the partys highest body, and, since the 9th National Congress in 1969, has been convened every five years (prior to the 9th Congress they were convened on an irregular basis). According to the partys constitution, a congress may not be postponed except under extraordinary circumstances.[55] The party constitution gives the National Congress six responsibilities:[56] electing the Central Committee;[56] electing the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI);[56] examining the report of the outgoing Central Committee;[56] examining the report of the outgoing CCDI;[56] discussing and enacting party policies; and:[56] revising the partys constitution.[56] In practice, the delegates rarely discuss issues at length at the National Congresses. Most substantive discussion takes place before the congress, in the preparation period, among a group of top party leaders.[56] In between National Congresses, the Central Committee is the highest decision-making institution.[57] The CCDI is responsible for supervising partys internal anti-cor
