Kathmandu— Chinese President Xi Jinping lauded the “indelible contributions” of former leader Jiang Zemin at a grand gathering held Monday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, marking the centenary of his birth. Xi, who also serves as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, called on all members of the CPC and the Chinese people to continue pursuing the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics, praising Jiang’s leadership and urging continued efforts to improve lives and strengthen the nation.

Jiang Zemin's Legacy

Xi described Jiang as a dedicated communist leader and key figure in advancing China’s socialist path. He highlighted Jiang’s role as the core of the third generation of the Party’s central collective leadership and the principal founder of the Theory of Three Represents, emphasizing his lasting impact on Chinese political thought. Born in 1926, Jiang served as General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee from 1989 until 2002 and passed away in 2022 at the age of 96.

Commitment to Party Leadership

Xi stressed the importance of upholding the leadership of the Communist Party, noting that Jiang believed strengthening Party building was crucial for continued progress. He called on members to draw strength from Jiang’s firm political conviction and ensure the Party remains a strong core in China's socialist development. Xi also emphasized Jiang’s dedication to improving people’s lives, stating that the fundamental goal of economic development should be raising living standards.

Innovation and Global Engagement

Xi commended Jiang for fostering innovation across various fields – theory, institutions, science, technology, and culture – and urged continued progress in these areas. He specifically noted the creation of the Theory of Three Represents as a significant contribution to socialist thought. Xi also highlighted Jiang’s role in opening China further to the world, including leading the country's successful accession to the World Trade Organization.

Facing Future Challenges

Xi underscored the need for courage and vision in navigating future challenges, recalling how Jiang led China through crises such as the Asian financial crisis and severe floods in 1998. He urged readiness to withstand risks and safeguard national interests, continuing the country’s trajectory of economic growth and social stability. Xi also called for building a community with a shared future for humanity and contributing positive energy to global peace and development.

Approximately 6,000 people attended Monday's commemoration, which was presided over by Li Qiang and included participation from other high-ranking members of the CPC Central Committee and Vice President Han Zheng.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.