Xi leads event marking late leader Jiang Zemin’s 100th birth anniversary
Jiang Zemin, who died in 2022, confounded naysayers and led the country through a decade of rapid economic growth after the 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy protesters.
President Xi Jinping led a gathering in Beijing on Monday to honor the 100th birth anniversary of former leader Jiang Zemin. The event took place in the Great Hall of the People, where top Chinese officials commemorated Jiang, who led China during a crucial period of its economic rise. Jiang, who passed away in 2022 at 96, guided the nation through a decade of rapid growth following the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown. His co-governor, former Premier Zhu Rongji, died last week, with his funeral set for Tuesday.
Jiang's legacy is seen as contrasting with that of current President Xi, who has adopted a more centralised approach, focusing on technological autonomy and strategic industries. During a 40-minute speech, Xi urged the Communist Party to uphold Jiang's legacy, presenting the current leadership as its continuation. The event reflects the importance of retired leaders in Chinese politics, with former President Hu Jintao notably absent from the gathering.
China's state broadcaster also aired a 12-part documentary series on Jiang's life, sparking an internet subculture that admires the former leader, known for his love of singing and reciting the Gettysburg Address in English.
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- Xi leads event marking late leader Jiang Zemin's 100th birth anniversary koreatimes.co.kr
- Xi leads event marking late leader Jiang Zemin’s 100th birth anniversary freemalaysiatoday.com
