CPC's governing philosophy underpins China's success

Traditional culture source of soft power

By Wang Honggang

The CPC possesses the spirit of self-reform, a concept deeply rooted in Chinese culture, which emphasizes introspection and self-cultivation.

The essence of this profound traditional wisdom is that all truths of the universe reside within the human mind, and all solutions to problems lie in the elevation of one's spiritual stature.

The CPC's spirit of self-reform reflects the integration of the basic principles of Marxism and fine traditional Chinese culture. Endowed with such wisdom and courage, the CPC has surmounted external challenges time and again.

Under its leadership, China focuses on self-improvement and managing its own affairs well instead of blaming or shifting responsibilities to other countries. Such a mindset is exceedingly rare and precious in contemporary international politics.

This focus on the self and inward pursuit is neither selfish conservatism, nor isolationism. Throughout its history, the Party has shouldered the important mission entrusted by the people. It has pursued national independence, the people's liberation and prosperity, and achieved significant success.

Today, as the world's largest ruling party, the CPC bears greater responsibilities to safeguard world peace and advance shared development.

However, peace and development do not mean blind compromise for superficial harmony. Achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and the building of a community with a shared future for humanity will by no means be smooth sailing. They will require a great struggle with many new features. The CPC dares to struggle, and excels at it. It does not provoke trouble, yet never shirks from confronting it. When assessing what role China will play in the world, one should take into account these characteristics of the Party.

The author is the head of the Institute of Peaceful Development at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.