Xi Jinping leads event marking late Chinese leader Jiang Zemin's 100th birth anniversary
In a 40-minute speech on Monday (Aug 17), the Chinese president called on the Communist Party to carry forward Jiang's legacy, presenting the current leadership as the continuation of his political and ideological project.
Beijing hosted an event on Monday to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of former Chinese leader Jiang Zemin. President Xi Jinping addressed the gathering in the Great Hall of the People, urging the Communist Party to carry forward Jiang's legacy, describing the current leadership as a continuation of his political and ideological project.
Jiang died in 2022 at the age of 96, leading China through a decade of rapid economic growth after the 1989 Tiananmen incident. His co-partner in governance, former Premier Zhu Rongji, passed away last week. The two leaders' deaths mark the end of the rapid reforms of the 1990s and early 2000s, focusing on private entrepreneurship and wealth creation.
In his speech, Xi warned of vigilance against potential dangers and the need to proactively meet major tests, drawing parallels between facing challenges and Jiang's resilience. The event was attended by officials like current and retired officials, former President Hu Jintao, and former Vice President Wang Qishan, suggesting their continued favor with the leadership.
A documentary series chronicling Jiang's life and achievements aired on China's state broadcaster the day before the event. Jiang, known as the Elder, is remembered fondly by some Chinese netizens for his role in a more optimistic era of rapid economic growth and tangible improvements in everyday life.
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