The Communist Party of China government-owned Xinhua news agency's photo editors have published an underwear album for spring.
Wow, that was a mouthful. I'd have to catch my breath, but I think I can't really, once I click on the photo below to see the entire collection.
China has been admired by other authoritarian governments for liberalising its economy while keeping relatively tight control of its people's political freedoms. It has been praised for reforming its economy first by introducing capitalism, and not political openness - lest it end up like Russia.
I suppose the kind of 'openness' that is acceptable is of publishing photos of female celebrities wearing revealing clothes, by the Xinhua news agency at the Cannes Film Festival.
Thank you again, Danwei, for having kept us abreast of events at Cannes
Can countries exist as viable states even though they are opening up economicially but not politically?
Sure. These 'hybrid' regimes - many of them one-party states - exist.
But for how long? And how sustainable will they be?
Meanwhile, enjoy the 'party', folks. As long as money can be made off capitalism (or their version of it), and as long as the 'Party' can keep the people happy with bread and circuses, not to mention sexy women in lingerie and bust-revealing clothes.
P.S. And the latest: Josie Maran, hat-tip again to Danwei
