Forging ahead with firm confidence: China Daily editorial

At a reception on Wednesday marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, President Xi Jinping called on the nation to forge ahead with firm confidence and solid steps toward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

His remarks offered both a review of the road already traveled and a clear indication of the way forward.

Earlier that morning, Xi and other Party and State leaders attended a ceremony at Tian'anmen Square to present flower baskets to fallen national heroes. That ceremony, held on the eve of National Day, Oct 1, to mark Martyrs' Day, paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for national independence and prosperity. The solemn remembrance provided a fitting prelude to his speech which centered on the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Combining confidence with sobriety, the speech recognized both the opportunities and challenges facing China.

Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China and through the sustained efforts of the Chinese people, the country has maintained rapid economic growth and long-term social stability. The progress of the nation, secured amid a complex and changing international environment, has provided solid grounds for the Chinese people to remain confident in the bright future of the country's modernization.

China has achieved the First Centenary Goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. But this achievement is not a reason for complacency. As the nation advances toward the Second Centenary Goal of building a great modern socialist country in all respects, it must continue to press ahead with determination and sustained efforts.

China's growing national strength carries significance beyond its borders. Reaffirming China's independent foreign policy of peace, Xi called for advancing the four global initiatives and promoting a community with a shared future for humanity. His concluding toast to friendship and cooperation between the Chinese people and people around the world underscored China's commitment to contributing greater certainty to a turbulent world.

Stressing the need to resolutely combat "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, oppose external interference, promote the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations and advance national reunification, Xi once again made clear China's red line on the Taiwan question.

From honoring those who made today's China possible to setting out how today's China will move forward, the day's events in Beijing conveyed a consistent message: confidence is built on history, sustained by the governance capabilities and demonstrated through action.