Wang QishanXi JinpingWen JiabaoJiang ZeminCommunist Party of China

Xi leads event marking Jiang Zemin's 100th birth anniversary; urges advancing socialism with Chinese characteristics

Chinese President Xi Jinping commemorated the 100th birth anniversary of late leader Jiang Zemin, urging the Communist Party and the nation to advance socialism with Chinese characteristics. Xi emphasized Jiang's contributions to reform and the importance of Party leadership during a grand gathering in Beijing.

news.cgtn.com news.cgtn.com+1 source17 August 2026 · 07:58 UTC
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Chinese President Xi Jinping led a significant event on Monday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, marking the 100th birth anniversary of Jiang Zemin, a pivotal figure in China's economic rise. Xi urged the Communist Party of China (CPC) and all ethnic groups to advance socialism with Chinese characteristics.12

In a 40-minute speech, Xi highlighted Jiang's indelible contributions to the nation, particularly in reform and opening up, which led to overall moderate prosperity in people's lives. He stated, “Jiang had remained unswervingly firm in communist ideals, utterly loyal to the Party and the people.”5

Xi called for a renewed commitment to Jiang's legacy, emphasizing the need for strengthening Party leadership and self-governance. “On the new journey ahead, we must heighten our sense of vigilance against potential dangers,” he warned, urging the Party to prepare for challenges ahead.

The event was attended by top officials, including former leaders, indicating their continued support for Xi's leadership. Ahead of the commemoration, a documentary series on Jiang's life was aired, and commemorative coins featuring his image are set to be issued by the central bank.4

Xi's remarks reflect a broader strategy to maintain the Party's core leadership role as China navigates its future challenges, reinforcing the importance of Jiang's political and ideological contributions to the nation’s development.

Key Insight
“The gathering drew top officials including former Premier Wen Jiabao and ex-Vice President Wang Qishan, signaling their continued favor. Ahead of the event, state broadcaster aired a 12-part documentary, and the central bank plans commemorative coins bearing Jiang's image.”
CuriousCats studied:
1
news.cgtn.comnews.cgtn.com
“Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday urged the whole Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people of all ethnic groups to continuously advance the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics as the country marked the birth centenary of late leader Jiang Zemin.”
news.cgtn.com →
2
ReutersReuters
“Top Chinese officials led by President Xi Jinping gathered in the Great Hall of the People on Monday 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.”
Reuters →
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