MUMBAI: As China prepares for its most significant leadership transition in decades, CNN has announced the launch of its first ever regular series focussed on the country. The new monthly show hosted by CNN correspondent and anchor Kristie Lu Stout provides viewers with an insider?s view of China from within its own borders.

The first episode ?Inside the Chinese Communist Party? airs on 17 October at 3 pm, 20 October at 10 am, 21 October at 5 pm, 27 October at 5 pm and on 28 October at 10 am.

The second episode: ?Chinese Consumerism? airs on 21 November at 4 pm, 24 November at 11 am, 25 November at 7 pm, 1 December at 3 pm and on 2 December at 11 am.

The third episode ?Chinese Exploration? airs on 19 December at 4 pm, 22 December at 11 am, 23 December at 7 pm, 29 December at 7 pm, and 30 December at 11 am.

Shot on location in Hong Kong at Hullett House, in each 30-minute show Lu Stout sits down with thought and business leaders from within China?s borders for a roundtable discussion about what really drives this world power and economic giant.

With China?s leadership transition expected within a month, the first episode delves into the Chinese Communist Party, exploring how membership is obtained, factions within the party, the personality traits of China?s presumed next leader, and the impact of the ongoing Bo Xilai scandal. At the table helping to demystify the Chinese Communist Party is Hung Huang, a celebrated Chinese media personality and publisher brought up among China?s political elite, Victor Gao, a former official in the Chinese Foreign Ministry and English translator for Deng Xiaoping and John Pomfret, award-winning journalist and China commentator.

CNN International senior VP Mike McCarthy said, "The world is watching China more than ever and our new show delivers in-depth, intelligent insights on its economic, political and cultural drivers. We?re proud to be the first international news network to dedicate a regular show to China, enabling viewers within China?s borders and around the world to better understand the country and its people."

Lu Stout said, "China is a country of dramatic change, political intrigue, and dynamic economic growth. I?ve been writing and reporting about China since the late 1990s, and the nation continues to fascinate me. I?m excited to host a regular discussion on current affairs and trends inside China."

The November episode looks at the growing strength of Chinese consumerism and in December, the show focuses on Chinese exploration.