Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on the Chinese people to uphold the legacy of revolutionary leader Sun Yat-sen and unite in efforts to achieve national rejuvenation and realise the long-standing aspirations of the Chinese nation.
Xi made the call on Thursday during a gathering in Beijing to commemorate the 160th anniversary of Sun Yat-sen’s birth. The event, held at the Great Hall of the People, brought together approximately 3,000 participants, including senior Chinese leaders and representatives of Sun’s family and overseas guests.
Born in 1866, Sun Yat-sen led the 1911 Revolution, which brought an end to China’s centuries-old imperial system and paved the way for the establishment of a republic. He died in 1925.
In his address, Xi, who is also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, described Sun as a great national hero, patriot and pioneer of China’s democratic revolution.
He said Chinese communists remained steadfast supporters, loyal collaborators and faithful successors to the revolutionary cause initiated by Sun.
According to Xi, the CPC has, for more than a century, led the Chinese people in writing a remarkable chapter in the history of the nation.
“The best way for us to remember Dr. Sun is to emulate, inherit and carry forward his invaluable spirit, steadily advancing our endeavours to build a great country and rejuvenate our nation,” Xi said.
Emphasising Sun’s lifelong commitment to China, Xi urged citizens to embrace patriotism and work collectively towards building a strong and prosperous country.
Addressing cross-Strait relations, Xi reaffirmed China’s commitment to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, expressing willingness to engage in dialogue and consultations with people from different sectors in Taiwan on issues relating to relations across the Taiwan Strait and national reunification.
He said any dialogue would take into consideration the realities of Taiwan and the interests and feelings of its people. However, he maintained that China would not tolerate separatist activities advocating Taiwan independence.
“The historical trends are unstoppable. The complete reunification of our motherland must be realised, and it can, without doubt, be realised,” Xi declared.
The commemoration formed part of China’s efforts to honour Sun Yat-sen’s historical contributions and encourage the continued pursuit of national unity, development and rejuvenation.
Source: Xinhua News Agency