No force can ever shake the status of China, or stop the Chinese people and nation from marching forward, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized at the heart of Beijing.
President Xi made the remarks Tuesday while addressing the National Day parade at Tian'anmen Square to celebrate the 70th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC).
Key quotes of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the National Day parade celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC). /CGTN Photo
Joyful Chinese proud of motherland as PRC turns 70
During his speech, the Chinese leader paid respects to the revolutionary forerunners and martyrs who made great contributions to the country's independence, development and prosperity. He also acknowledged overseas Chinese and foreign friends for their help and support to China.
"We gathered here today for a grand rally to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the PRC," said Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission.
"Right at this moment, Chinese people of all ethnic groups and all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation at home and abroad take pride in and give our best wishes to our great motherland with great joy."
Key quotes of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the National Day parade celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC). /CGTN Photo
Founding of PRC completely changed China's fate
Seventy years ago on this day, Xi recalled it was here that Chairman Mao Zedong solemnly declared to the world the founding of the People's Republic of China. At that moment, the Chinese people stood up, and the nation has since then embarked on a journey of national rejuvenation.
On the journey forward, Xi urged more efforts to uphold the principles of "Peaceful Reunification" and "One Country, Two Systems" under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, and build a community with a shared future for mankind together with people around the world.
He also called for efforts to constantly meet people's aspirations for a better life and make new historic achievements.
Key quotes of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the National Day parade celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC). /CGTN Photo
China to stay on peaceful development path
The president also pledged the country will stay on the path of peaceful development, and pursue a mutually beneficial strategy of opening up.
"We will continue to work with people from all countries to push for jointly building a community with a shared future for humanity," Xi said, stressing that the Chinese People's Liberation Army and the People's Armed Police Force should always preserve their nature, purpose and character as the forces of the people, resolutely safeguard China's sovereignty, security, and development interests, and firmly uphold world peace.
Key quotes of Chinese President Xi Jinping at the National Day parade celebrating the 70th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China (PRC). /CGTN Photo
Xi urges concerted efforts to achieve two centenary goals
China's yesterday had been inscribed in human history while China's today is being created in the hands of hundreds of millions of Chinese people, Xi said, adding that "China will surely have an even brighter future."
All Party members, armed forces and people of all ethnic groups should unite more closely together, stay true to the founding mission, build on existing achievements and continue to develop our people's republic, Xi said, adding that continued efforts should be made to achieve the two centenary goals and national rejuvenation.