In pictures: China's congress

Some 2,200 delegates have gathered in Beijing for the Communist Party's 17th National Congress, amid the party's traditional iconography.

President Hu Jintao is expected to use the summit to cement his legacy within the party, and map out policies for the coming years...

...but with the focus on the party's future, the presence of former leader Jiang Zemin (centre) served as a reminder that the old guard still holds some sway.

President Hu's speech, broadcast around China, was said to be long in duration but short on specifics.

The Beijing summit, held every five years, plays host to delegates from across China.

Preparations were meticulous at the showpiece event, China's most important political meeting.

Party bosses were keen to avoid any signs of dissent, putting in place a heavy police presence and banning such items as paragliders and model aeroplanes.

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