Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s resilience in overcoming challenges and reiterated his administration’s commitment to the reunification with Taiwan during his address on Monday, at a reception celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Xi underscored the nation’s determination to achieve its long-term goals while marking the PRC’s establishment on October 1, 1949.
China marked the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China China on October 1, 2024, with a flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square in Beijing.
‘No challenges can stop China’s progress’ Xi Jinping says
Addressing around 3,000 Communist Party of China (CPC) members and foreign dignitaries, Xi acknowledged the looming uncertainties China faces but expressed confidence in the country’s ability to press forward.
“No challenges can stop China’s progress,” Xi asserted, calling on the nation to remain vigilant and to overcome “high winds, rough seas, and stormy waves.”
While China is the world’s second-largest economy and the second-most populous nation, its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic has been sluggish. The country’s housing sector has been hit hard, and the population is aging, further straining economic growth. In addition to these internal issues, China’s economic downturn has been exacerbated by external factors such as diminished consumer spending.
Despite these hurdles, Xi painted a positive picture of China’s progress since the Communist Party came to power 75 years ago, lauding the nation’s achievements while urging its citizens to brace for potential future hardships.
“The road ahead will not be smooth,” Xi warned, but he emphasized the importance of staying loyal to the Party and relying on the Chinese military to navigate difficult times.
China reaffirms Taiwan reunification
Chinese President reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan contribute to China’s national rejuvenation.
Reiterating Beijing’s long-held ambition for reunification, Xi called Taiwan “China’s sacred territory,” and emphasized that the bond between the people of both sides of the Taiwan Strait is unbreakable.
“Blood is thicker than water,” he said, signaling that no external force could halt China’s pursuit of “national rejuvenation.”
China considers Taiwan a breakaway province, and Xi has consistently maintained that reunification is a priority for his government.
Xi did not shy away from China’s readiness to use force if necessary, a stance he has held throughout his tenure. Laws introduced under Xi’s rule impose the death penalty on those viewed as serious separatists, including political leaders from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party.
Globalization and support from ‘friendly’ nations
In a broader context, Xi presented China as a steadfast supporter of globalization, avoiding naming specific countries or international trade disputes. He also thanked “friendly” nations that have supported China’s development.
As China celebrated its 75th anniversary, Xi’s message to both domestic and international audiences is clear: despite challenges ahead, China will not waver in its path toward national development, reunification, and global prominence.