Day to cherish at start of new journey

Military aircraft form the number 100 as they fly in formation over Tian'anmen Square ahead of the grand gathering to celebrate the Communist Party of China's centenary in Beijing on Thursday. ZHANG CHEN/XINHUA

Priority should be given to addressing imbalances and inadequacies in development as well as the most pressing difficulties and problems that are of great concern to the people, Xi said, adding that efforts should be made to achieve notable and substantial progress in promoting well-rounded human development and common prosperity for all.

He stressed the importance of continuing to adapt Marxism to the Chinese context as well as upholding and developing socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era. "At the fundamental level, the capability of our Party and the strengths of socialism with Chinese characteristics are attributable to the fact that Marxism works."

Noting that the nation stands ready to learn from the achievements of other cultures and also welcomes helpful suggestions and constructive criticism, Xi said, "We will not, however, accept sanctimonious preaching from those who feel they have the right to lecture us."

"We will make sure the destiny of China's development and progress remains firmly in our own hands," he added.

Xi underscored upholding the Party's overall leadership, saying that China's success hinges on the Party. "The Party was chosen by history and the people. The leadership of the Party is the defining feature of socialism with Chinese characteristics and constitutes the greatest strength of this system."