China is now moving toward a slower, but more sustainable growth rate, the "new normal". If the next 20 years are to be as bright as the last, China will have to overcome a number of important challenges. In particular, the government will need to manage the transition from rural to urban society, public to private enterprises, prime-age to aging population, investment-to consumption-based growth, and manufacturing to service economy. This will call for a raft of structural reforms across a range of policy domains.

The 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) represents an important opportunity for China to make this happen. The OECD is proud to have been asked to make a substantial contribution to the government's preparation for this plan. This year we have prepared three reports for the National Development and Reform Commission as inputs for the 13th Five-Year Plan - China in a Changing Global Environment, All on Board: Making Inclusive Growth Happen in China, and A National Urban Policy Review of China.

Looking ahead, we should continue to consolidate and deepen this mutually beneficial partnership. China could make even greater use of the OECD's pioneering indicators, such as the Measure of Trade in Value-Added, which is changing the way we look at trade and investment and how we design policies to engage in Global Value Chains.

Naturally, we must continue to address global challenges together. Our partnership in the framework of the G20 has been paramount in stabilizing the global economy and avoiding an outright collapse of the international financial system. For instance, China's role, along with those of other G20 and OECD countries, remains critical in the global fight against tax evasion. The same can be said about its support for the development of a coherent set of international tax rules to end base erosion and profit shifting.

Philosopher Lao Tzu said: "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." China and the OECD have taken not one but many steps over the past two decades toward a comprehensive and mutually beneficial partnership. We will continue working together to learn from each other, to think creatively and to make the world a better place for the present and future generations. Together, we can design, develop and deliver better policies for better lives.

The author is secretary-general of the OECD.

(China Daily 03/21/2015 page8)