China is a country of many peoples and many political parties.
Before the state adopts important measures or makes decisions on issues having a bearing on the national economy and the people's livelihood, the CPC, as the party in power, consults with representatives of all ethnic groups, political parties and non-Party personages, and all other social sectors, in order to reach a common understanding. This system of multi-party cooperation and political consultation led by the CPC is a basic political system in China. It is a widely representative, patriotic united front organization of the Chinese people, first established in September 1949. The committees at various levels hold plenary sessions once a year. When the committee is not in session, special activities for the committee members are organized, including inspection tours of various localities.