- On Monday, top Chinese officials led by President Xi Jinping gathered in the Great Hall of the People to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of late leader Jiang Zemin, who led China in a pivotal phase in its rise from a marginal economy to a global growth engine.
- In a 40-minute speech, Xi called on the Communist Party to carry forward Jiang's legacy, presenting the current leadership as the continuation of his political and ideological project.
- Chinese President Xi Jinping called on the Communist Party of China (CPC) and people across the country to continue advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics as the nation commemorated the 100th anniversary of the birth of late leader Jiang Zemin.
- Ahead of Monday's event, China's state broadcaster aired a 12-part prime-time documentary series chronicling Jiang's life and achievements.
- Last week, China's central bank announced plans to issue a set of commemorative coins bearing Jiang's image later this month to mark the centenary, delighting the late leader's youthful online fan base.
China commemorated the 100th anniversary of Jiang Zemin's birth on Monday, with President Xi Jinping emphasizing the need to advance socialism with Chinese characteristics. The gathering at the Great Hall of the People highlighted Jiang's significant role in China's economic rise and global integration.13
Jiang, who served as general secretary of the Communist Party from 1989 to 2002 and as president from 1993 to 2003, was pivotal during a time of rapid economic expansion. Xi called on the party and all ethnic groups to draw inspiration from Jiang's life and work, urging them to continue the socialist development he championed.2
In a 40-minute speech, Xi stated, “On the new journey ahead, we must heighten our sense of vigilance against potential dangers,” emphasizing the need for resilience in facing challenges. He presented the current leadership as a continuation of Jiang's political and ideological legacy.
The event was closely monitored for insights into the political landscape and the status of China's retired elite. Ahead of the commemoration, a documentary series chronicling Jiang's life was aired, and plans for commemorative coins featuring his image were announced, appealing to his youthful fan base.5
“Xi's 40-minute speech framed the current leadership as the continuation of Jiang's political project, urging vigilance against potential dangers. Ahead of the event, state broadcaster aired a 12-part documentary, and the central bank announced commemorative coins bearing Jiang's image, delighting his youthful online fan base.”
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