BEIJING, Dec. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) is exerting efforts to actively prevent and handle mass incidents, and such a move shows the Party's clear recognition of China's current social and economic development and its courage to confront realities.

    The Resolution of the CPC Central Committee on Major Issues Regarding the Building of a Harmonious Socialist Society, adopted at the Sixth Plenary Session of the 16th Central Committee of the CPC on Oct. 11, is the first major Party document that addresses the issue of mass incidents and makes it an important task in the process of building a harmonious society.

    China is harmonious and stable in general, but it is undergoing profound changes in social and economic structures with many destabilizing factors. The number and scope of mass incidents have become the most outstanding problem that seriously disturbs social stability.

    The mass incidents reflect the various social conflicts and problems popping up at the crucial stage of China's reforms.

    The prevention and proper handling of mass incidents is a major test for the CPC's governing ability.

    China's booming economic development has largely improved people's living standard, but in the meantime the gaps between the rich and poor, urban and rural have been widened.