Xi's thought serves as beacon for exemplary governance

China is both celebrated and misinterpreted on the global stage. The misunderstanding becomes a deeper problem when people are unwilling to invest the time needed to learn about the economic, political, social and cultural rise of the nation over the past roughly 50 years.

Now another opportunity to understand contemporary China and the Communist Party of China has emerged with a new report titled "Contemporary Features and Global Significance of Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building", released this month by the national high-level think tank of the Party School of the CPC Central Committee.

The report opens with powerful assertions that explain the importance of the document: "To understand China today, one must understand the Communist Party of China", and "to understand the Communist Party of China today, one must understand Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building".

The document is not a lesson in history. Instead, it is a critical assessment of how the CPC has grown into the world's largest political party. It explains how President Xi Jinping has articulated the challenges and opportunities that China faces and that the Party must address to remain authoritative, credible and trusted by the Chinese
people.

The central theme of the report is the CPC's tradition of "unremitting self-reform", particularly under Xi's leadership, focusing sharply on the needs of the people and demonstrating the Party's integrity. Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building reminds readers that the CPC retains its authority by delivering to the people what they need.

This promise of "governing with virtue" while "maintaining a keen political awareness" would not be possible amid corruption, greed or a lack of discipline.

Xi has often emphasized that the people are the foundation of the Chinese nation. Thus, the Party's actions and its leaders are judged by their ability to improve the lives of the people. A pertinent example highlighted in the report is the significant improvement in Beijing's air quality. That work has not only benefited Chinese citizens but also the many international visitors to the country's capital — a testament to decades of commitment.

Another theme is that exemplary leadership stems from a deep understanding of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, coupled with a positive spirit in fulfilling responsibilities at every leadership level. In effect, a good leader derives satisfaction from enthusiastically endorsing the CPC's goals, especially those relating to national rejuvenation.

Just as people pay attention to their diet and exercise in order to remain healthy, effective leadership is built through self-discipline and selflessness. Abiding by the CPC rules and national law is embedded in this ideal, and character is shown by the outward demonstration of putting the people, the Party and the nation ahead of any other ambition.

Xi has maintained that without unwavering integrity, the CPC
cannot fulfill its obligations to the people or honestly reflect their will.

Moreover, the Party cannot convey authority in its policies and actions internationally if it is considered untrustworthy. While critics will always exist, there is a vast difference between dislike and disrespect.

The CPC must aim for respect in all it does, and the report affirms how it has strived to do that under Xi's leadership.

The report admits that "the test of governance is ever present", emphasizing the need to focus on always doing the right thing. Neglecting the people, forsaking Party values or ignoring problems is not an option. The Chinese people aspire to better lives, and the CPC is tasked with delivering this and rejuvenating the nation.

The eradication of absolute poverty, a stronger education system, the fostering of green technologies and the advancements in healthcare are just a few examples of ideas successfully put into action.

Moreover, by rejecting tired ideas of the past connected to the Cold War era, the CPC seeks positive relations with nations big and small based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation. The results of this new approach can be seen across the world.

The report also urges other nations, especially those in the Global South, to follow their own development paths while considering the importance of building credibility and delivering real achievements to their citizens.

"Lifelong learning" is a phrase often heard in the United States. It advocates that an individual, no matter what age or professional experience, should always continue to seek more knowledge. The roughly 50-page report on Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building is essential reading for those who are eager to learn more about China.

The author is an associate professor in the Communication and Organizational Leadership Department at Robert Morris University in Pennsylvania, US. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily or Robert Morris University.