The New Generation: Chinese president visits university ahead of Youth Day

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01:54

We start here in Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Peking University, two days ahead of China's Youth Day and on the 120th birthday of the university. CGTN's Timothy Ulrich has more.

It takes ten years to grow trees, but a hundred to rear people. Peking University has witnessed great development and changes in its students and the country.

Chinese President Xi Jinping first inspected an exhibition of achievements by the university. Xi expressed his appreciation and emphasized the importance to run universities with Chinese characteristics.

Xi Jinping met with professors and teachers near Weiming Lake. He asked young teachers to continue to learn and work hard on their teaching and research.

President Xi inspected an exhibition of achievements in science, engineering, and the health sciences on his visit to the university on its 120th birthday. Xi said he is proud of the outcomes and achievements, adding that the country should be self-dependent in innovation. He also said the country will continue focusing on the technology industry.

Xi also visited an exhibition named "Peking University and Marxism" at the International Marxist literature Center. He stressed the best way to honor Marx in the contemporary era is to implement the spirit of the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, and the thoughts on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era.

Later at a forum with teachers and students at Peking University's Overseas Exchange Center, Xi said the right political direction, a high-quality faculty team and high-level personnel training system are three key elements in achieving this.

Xi urged the younger generation to become the latest great force for China's rejuvenation, echoing the old saying " A country flourishes when its education and students become stronger."