21.   Laos switched from a centralized economy to a market-oriented one in line with changes in neighboring Vietnam and eastern Europe.

22.   Now, reforms aiming to transform the centralized economy into a market-based one are stalled, and the public sector is paralyzed by red tape and corruption.

23.   Privatization of the formerly centralized economy was fast and wages in the private sector are steadily growing.

24.   Under pressure from international lenders, Rao swiftly adopted a radical liberalization program that dismantled the centralized economy and invited outside investment.

25.   Zyuganov has tried to cut a liberal image, but many other Communist leaders have spoken in favor of returning to a Soviet-style centralized economy.