Having walked through yesterday, New China has undergone monumental changes and a transformation. Today, it continues to evolve with vigor and vitality, and while the journey ahead remains challenging, the future is promising.

Achieving the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has been the collective aspiration of the Chinese people since modern times. Not long after the founding of New China in 1949, our Party set forth the goal of building a modern socialist country.

The path we choose determines our destiny, and the path changes destiny.

In the past 75 years, New China evolved from a nation of poverty and weakness to one that has completed the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, embarking on a new journey of fully building a modern socialist country. The Chinese nation has made a significant leap, progressing from standing up and growing prosperous to becoming strong. "The fundamental reason is that we have found a correct path that suits China's national conditions, conforms to the trends of the times and enjoys the support of the people. The path is socialism with Chinese characteristics." 　

Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, highlighted: "Promoting the building of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation through a Chinese path to modernization is not only a bright road for the Chinese people to pursue a better and happier life, but also a just one to promote world peace and development." This significant conclusion contains profound historical, theoretical, and practical logic.

By 2035, we will basically realize socialist modernization, and we will build China into a great modern socialist country from 2035 through the middle of the 21st century. The 20th National Congress of the CPC held in 2022 made a macro-outlook on the "two-step" strategic plan and introduced key theoretical innovations - summarizing and deeply elaborating on the theory of Chinese modernization.

In planning and deploying reforms aligned with the Party's central mission, the resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee pointed out: "As Chinese modernization has been advanced continuously through reform and opening-up, it will surely embrace broader horizons through further reform and opening-up."

Our rich history and profound civilization serve as the foundation of our confidence and strength. Having walked through a glorious journey and moving toward a bright future, we will unite to gather strength, and through hard work, we will achieve great accomplishments. Together, we will write a magnificent chapter of Chinese modernization, filled with confidence and determination.

The expedition driven by dreams has never feared the mountains and rivers, nor has it been daunted by difficulties and dangers.

In the Wumeng Mountains, the North Panjiang River flows swiftly through deep gorges. To traverse these mountains, three bridges have been constructed over the years.

In 1970, a suspension bridge was constructed; in 1990, a steel plate bridge was built on top of the suspension bridge; and in December 2016, the world's highest bridge - the Beipan Bridge - was completed and opened to traffic, turning the chasm into a vital thoroughfare.

Since the beginning of the new era, China has successively tackled world-class challenges in areas such as super-large bridges, long tunnels, rapid island construction, and roads in special geological conditions, achieving a series of "world-leading" milestones in expressway development. The terms "Chinese roads," "Chinese bridges," and "Chinese tunnels" have become shining symbols of the country.

The evolution of roads reflects "epic progress" over the past 75 years, symbolizing the steadfast journey of an ancient nation toward rejuvenation. It is precisely by courageous advancing along the path of Chinese modernization that we have achieved rare "two great miracles" and unveiled a bright prospect for national rejuvenation.

A road is not merely a physical passage but also a reflection of the times.

Today in China, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge establishes a world-class standard, the G60 Science and Technology Innovation Corridor in the Yangtze River Delta fosters innovative elements, Anhui Province's "Quantum Avenue" has evolved from being a follower to a leader, the Hotan-Ruoqiang Railway in Xinjiang creates a "happy road" across the desert, and the ancient Silk Road radiates with new brilliance in this era…

The road of upward climbing and forward advancement interlinks the diverse developments of the new era, weaving a beautiful tapestry of life. Navigating uphill struggles and overcoming obstacles, we carve out new paths. When faced with mountains, we build roads, and when encountering water, we build bridges, thus establishing thoroughfares. Each day in the new era brings us nearer to new horizons.

Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC held in 2012, based on the long-term exploration and practice since the founding of New China, particularly following the reform and opening-up, our Party has successfully advanced and broadened Chinese modernization, instilling a sense of confidence among hundreds of millions of people that "we are on the right path."

This globally noteworthy Chinese path provides a more comprehensive institutional guarantee, a more solid material foundation, and a more dynamic spiritual force for building a strong nation and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

The advantages of the "Chinese system" have turned out to be ever more apparent. The system has enhanced the Party's leadership structure, clarifying the boundaries of government power with "power lists" and "responsibility lists," and integrating the work of the Party and the state into a legal framework, and utilizing institutional strength to respond to risks and challenges. The advantages of socialism with Chinese characteristics are continuously evolving into governance effectiveness.

The quality of "Chinese development" is gaining increasing recognition. The total economic output has risen from 53.9 trillion yuan in 2012 to more than 126 trillion yuan in 2023, with the overall scale of manufacturing remaining the largest in the world for 14 consecutive years. This reflects not only a leap in "quantity" but also an improvement in "quality." China is charting a path of higher quality, increased efficiency, and more equitable, sustainable, and safer development.

The power of the "Chinese spirit" is on the rise. Whether competing in the Olympic Games to bring glory to the nation, advancing in times of crisis, honing skills at the grass-roots level, or leading the way in innovation, the dedication of hundreds of millions of people to the practice of reform and development reveals the rich heritage of remarkable traditional Chinese culture, the open and inclusive spirit of China, and the determination, resilience, and confidence of the Chinese people.

In this process, our Party adheres to the "two combinations" and has established Xi Jinping's Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, providing fundamental guidance for Chinese modernization.

The automotive industry is universally acknowledged as one of the most important indicators of a country's manufacturing strength. At the founding of New China, we were unable to produce one single car.

By 2023, China's automobile production and sales both exceeded 30 million units, making the country the world's largest automobile producer and consumer for 15 years running, and it has also become the largest automobile exporter globally. In the first eight months of 2024, the production and sales of new-energy vehicles in China rose by 29 percent and 30.9 percent year-on-year, respectively.

Through hard work and perseverance, progressing through reform and opening-up, and striving in the tide of the new era, practice has fully demonstrated that Chinese modernization is a broad avenue for building a strong nation and achieving national rejuvenation, and the avenue will continue to expand.

To achieve the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, the path is of utmost importance. Chinese modernization is the only correct path for building a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation, which has been opened up by the Party leading the people.

More than 100 years ago, Dr Sun Yat-sen outlined the first blueprint for China's modernization in his "International Development of China," which mentioned the construction of 1.6 million kilometers of roads, about 160,000 kilometers of railways, and three world-class seaports…

Today, roads are crisscrossing, high-speed trains are running, and China's railway operating mileage has exceeded 160,000 kilometers, with seven of the world's top 10 ports located in China. The level of modernization in China has greatly surpassed the expectations of our predecessors.

In 2020, Xi paused before an exhibit in a museum in Guangdong Province showcasing a grand plan that Sun Yat-sen devised to modernize China a century ago. "Only we Chinese Communists can make it happen," Xi remarked before the exhibit.

Why can the CPC make it happen?

Our guiding ideology evolves with the times. We will continue to promote the "two combinations," with the adaptation of Marxism to the Chinese context and the needs of our times guiding our direction and providing fundamental adherence.

Our historical mission remains steadfast. For over a century, the Party has united and led the people in all our efforts to build our country into a strong and modern nation and achieve the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

The goals of our efforts remain consistent. From the first Five-Year Plan (1953-1957) to the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025), the unchanging theme has been to build China into a modern socialist nation.

Great achievements are etched in history. The Chinese people have become the master of their own destiny, and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation has entered an unstoppable historical process. The socialist China stands tall and proud in the East.

Leading social revolution through the Party's self-revolution, the CPC is infusing more vibrancy into its revolutionary forging, determined to achieve the great cause of the Chinese nation for generations to come, and it is thriving.

Practices have clearly demonstrated that the Party's leadership is directly related to the fundamental direction, future destiny, and ultimate success or failure of Chinese modernization. Only by unwaveringly upholding the Party's leadership can Chinese modernization have a bright future and flourish.

Time flows on, telling the story of the times, and the story of the light.

"Every household using electric lights was something we could never even dare to imagine." On December 23, 2015, there was a significant celebration in Guomang village, Banma county, Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Northwest China's Qinghai Province. On this day, the electricity-access projects in Guomang village and two other locations were completed and approved, marking the end for the last 39,800 people in the country living without electricity as they stepped onto the "path of light."

With this, whether in the snowy plateau or in remote mountain villages, everyone has entirely bid farewell to the history of living without electricity. Our country has taken the lead among developing nations in achieving universal electricity access.

Across the globe, such a remarkable achievement can only be realized under the leadership of the CPC!

The passage of time witnesses change, and time provides the answers.

The dreams of a strong nation and national rejuvenation have been truly awakened under the leadership of the CPC, filling people with greater confidence - "Our golden world, a world of brilliance, is right ahead!"

Having traversed thousands of mountains and rivers, we still need to press forward by confronting challenges.

Chinese modernization is modernization of a huge population, which will greatly transform the modern world map. Xi pointed out: "Our modernization is both the most difficult and the greatest."

Standing at the forefront of the times, we observe the trends of history.

Committed to seeking happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation, committed to advancing progress for humanity and striving for harmony in the world, and with the belief that the world belongs to all, and the right path is for humanity - this is the strongest conviction our Party has in its historical mission.

To strengthen and empower the Party, ensuring that Chinese modernization overcomes challenges and progresses steadily, our Party remains clear-headed and resolute in addressing the unique challenges confronted with by large parties.

The principles remain consistent, the aspirations are unwavering, and we boldly move forward.

"The country is the people, and the people are the country." Chinese modernization is dedicated to the common prosperity of all people and the promotion of comprehensive human development, serving as a "road to happiness" that benefits the people.

In the expansive region of Northwest China's Gansu Province, a significant thoroughfare has been constructed. In November 2023, the Linxia-Dahejia Expressway, connecting 15 towns and 28 villages along the route, was completed and opened for use, becoming a route to prosperity for the local community and a pathway to an improved life.

The construction of this road was marked by a notable interaction, representing a vivid practice of the whole-process people's democracy.

In March 2019, during the country's annual two sessions, Dong Caiyun, a delegate from Gansu, voiced a grass-roots demand, stating, "We lack a highway connecting to the outside." Xi pointed out at the meeting that the officials present should actively listen to and adopt the suggestions of the delegates. That year, the construction of the Linxia-Dahejia Expressway commenced.

The people's calls are met with actions. Every detail is important, and we remain mindful of these concerns.

Today, across China, a series of roads leading to happiness, unity and revitalization vividly demonstrate the unwavering pursuit of Chinese modernization, centered on people's livelihoods.

In the depths of Daliang Mountain, robust steel ladders facilitate a prosperous life in the cliffside villages; the "backpack special line" in Chongqing better connects farmers' "money bags" with residents' "vegetable baskets," the integration of urban goods into rural areas, rural products into cities, e-commerce into villages, and express delivery to homes - these initiatives have created a vibrant new life in the countryside through the "Four Good Rural Roads" program…

"Our goal is both inspiring and simple. Ultimately, it is about delivering a better life for the people." These words from Xi capture the core essence of Chinese modernization.

The core of modernization is the modernization of people. In promoting Chinese modernization, the people are the logical starting point, the ultimate goal of the values, and the source of strength.

"Refine the employment-related public services system," "basic pension benefits for rural and non-working urban residents under the basic old-age insurance scheme will be raised gradually," "meet the essential need of salaried people for a home to live in"… The resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee proposes a series of reform measures that focus on the needs of development and address the expectations of the masses.

The starting point and ultimate aim of Chinese modernization is to empower over 1.4 billion Chinese people to achieve improved living standards. Numerous small yet significant aspects of daily life are increasingly incorporated into the overarching national development framework, transforming into the sense of gain, happiness, and security among the people.　

The Grand Canal embodies half of China's history. The millennium-old waterway has nurtured and benefited communities on both banks through its commercial civilization and the transmission of cultural heritage across time and space. In the decade following its successful designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Canal has been revitalized to reflect contemporary ethos, becoming a truly "river of wealth and happiness."　

Chinese modernization seeks not only the substantial enhancement of material wealth but also the profound enrichment of spiritual wealth, nurturing confidence and strength in thought and culture. From intangible cultural heritage evolving into cultural innovation, to the ascent of China Chic gaining popularity, and the emergence of miners-writers and deliverymen-poets… Chinese modernization empowers Chinese civilization with contemporary strength, and the edifice of the Chinese national spirit stands tall, further stimulating the enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity of hundreds of millions of people.

Xi's attention and support for hardworking individuals in various sectors inspire and motivate hundreds of millions of people to make their lives shine and realize their dreams through hard work.

Chinese modernization is a common endeavor for all people. Dedicated officials commit to fostering regional coordinated development through collaboration between the eastern and western regions in China; skilled craftsmen pursue excellence, enabling Chinese manufacturing to excel on the global stage; new farmers establish themselves in rural areas, injecting new vitality into ancient lands… By upholding the principles of collaborative participation, collective construction, and mutual benefits, we can ensure that everyone progresses toward modernization together.

The cultural spirit of a society is frequently found in the details.

From the creation of a wall of honor for over 4,000 builders at the Shanghai Tower to the lighting of landmark buildings in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, in tribute to ordinary and compassionate workers; from the "Two Bombs, One Satellite" spirit and the spirit of Jiao Yulu to the spirit of poverty alleviation and the entrepreneurial drive; from the further improvement of the social governance system based on collaboration, participation, and shared benefits to the commitment to and advancement of the whole-process people's democracy… The interests of "people" are being realized, their value is acknowledged, and their status as subjects is respected. This provides the strongest confidence in advancing Chinese modernization.

On this extensive journey, the people are paramount.

"To achieve national development and revitalization, the most important thing for China, a country with a vast territory and large population, is to follow a development path suiting its local conditions."

Chinese modernization stands as a significant achievement made by the CPC, which led the people to adhere to independence and self-reliance through long-term exploration and practice.

In 1909, the Beijing-Zhangjiakou Railway was completed. In 2019, the Beijing-Zhangjiakou High-Speed Railway commenced operations.

The development of the Beijing-Zhangjiakou railway exemplified China's path of independent innovation - beginning with independent design and construction starting from zero and achieving world-leading standards. Train speeds escalated from 35 kilometers per hour to 350 kilometers per hour. Just as Xi pointed out: "Looking back at history, the new line carries even greater significance."

Self-reliance is the cornerstone of the Chinese nation's efforts to establish itself among the nations of the world. History and reality alike affirm that "advancing Chinese modernization requires staying independent and maintaining self-reliance."

The history of the scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation also reflects the rise and fall of great powers.

Today, as we are confronted with a new wave of scientific and technological revolutions and industrial transformations at the pivotal intersection of China's development model transformation, the Chinese Communists, "standing in front of the world map," look at the future in a far-sighted way.

The key to Chinese modernization is the modernization of science and technology.

On January 1, 2024, the domestically manufactured large cruise ship "Adora Magic City" set sail on its inaugural commercial journey.

By conquering a series of crucial core technologies and driving the development of manufacturing, construction, energy, transportation, and other upstream and downstream industries, China is now equipped to construct aircraft carriers, large LNG transport vessels and large cruise ships, achieving the "three jewels" of the shipbuilding industry.

The Chang'e lunar exploration missions, the Tianhe core module, the Tianwen Mars mission, the Crust 1 deep-earth exploration, the Fendouzhe manned submersible, establishing leadership in 5G communication, thinner steel, larger screens, better chips, and advanced CNC machine tools… these are all vivid examples.

Emerging sectors like integrated circuits and artificial intelligence are experiencing rapid growth, domestically developed large passenger jet have commenced commercial flights, and high-speed rail technology has established international standards, while commercial aerospace and the low-altitude economy are accelerating.

Since the dawn of the new era, by seizing the essence of scientific and technological innovation, the drive for innovation and developmental vigor has surged, accelerating the formation of new quality productive forces and demonstrating strong driving and supporting forces for high-quality development.

China should enhance its strength to survive, compete, develop and sustain amid all sorts of predictable and unpredictable storms and high winds so as to ensure that the process of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation will not be delayed or interrupted. The most essential feature for constructing a new development pattern is achieving a high level of self-reliance and self-improvement.

Experience has thoroughly demonstrated that independence and self-reliance embody the essence of the Chinese national spirit and represent a crucial principle underpinning the CPC's foundation and governance. Following our own path constitues the foundation of all the CPC's theories and practices.

Reflecting on our journey, we have transitioned from a "latecomer to modernization" to a "growth hub of global modernization." Amid the wave of a new round of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation, the Chinese people have bravely faced the challenges, pursued progress, and kept pace with the times and led them. We have more firmly walked on the path of our choice, while firmly holding the fate of China's development and progress in our own hands.

As we look ahead, grounded in Chinese soil and heritage, inheriting Chinese civilization, and following the correct path that suits China's national conditions, the Party and the people possess an expansive platform in this era, a rich historical legacy, coupled with a robust resolve to advance.

Guided by the future of humanity and the welfare of the people, Xi pointed out: "To understand China, the key lies in understanding Chinese modernization."

"Promoting the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind" is one of the essential requirements of Chinese modernization. China uniquely enshrines the commitment to peaceful development within its Constitution.

In September 2024, the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation convened. Through collaborative efforts toward modernization, we aim to establish a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future, China-Africa relations embarked on a new journey.

From the Mombasa-Nairobi Railway to the Maputo-Katembe Bridge in Mozambique, and then to the Kribi Deep Seaport in Cameroon and the Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower Station in Zambia… Since the new era, with the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) having been progressing steadily, numerous "development routes," "dream bridges," and "prosperity ports" have boosted the interconnectivity across the African continent.

Concentrating on crucial sectors like industrialization, agricultural modernization, and talent training in Africa, from jointly implementing the "10 cooperation plans," "Eight major initiatives," and "Nine programs," to jointly promoting the "10 partnership action plans"… The construction of the China-Africa community with a shared future has set a brilliant example for the construction of a community with a shared future for humanity. The modernization of China and Africa, aiding the modernization of the Global South, will surely write a new chapter in the development of a community with a shared future for mankind.

In October 2023, the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway, designed and built by China with a speed of 350 kilometers per hour, commenced operations, establishing Indonesia as the first Southeast Asian nation to possess modernized high-speed rail. By the end of September 2024, it had carried over 5.4 million passenger trips, averaging around 16,000 passenger trips per day.

The joint construction of the BRI gathers the greatest "common denominator" of human development.

Standing on the right side of history and on the side of human civilization's progress, what China pursues is not a modernization that benefits itself alone but a collective effort for the common good, fostering the creation of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Over the 75 years since the establishment of the People's Republic of China (PRC), the nation's outlook and the lives of its people have experienced transformative changes, but its peaceful and benevolent nature, broad and inclusive mind, and pursuit of fairness and justice have remained unchanged. These are deeply rooted in the more than 5,000 years of Chinese civilization and grow deep in the souls of the Chinese people.

Since the new era, lifting nearly 100 million rural poor out of absolute poverty has made a significant contribution to global poverty reduction efforts; contributing to about 30 percent of global economic growth for many years has vigorously advanced the global development cause; continuously hosting the CIIE, CIFTIS, and CICPE has constantly offered new opportunities for the world with China's new development…

Enhancing the welfare of the Chinese people while facilitating the modernization of nations worldwide, Chinese modernization embodies a trajectory of peaceful development that will inject new momentum into maintaining world peace and promoting common development.

Recently, when legislators from various countries visited the Chongming Dongtan National Nature Reserve and electric vehicle production bases in Shanghai, they were deeply impressed by China's successful exploration of a sustainable development path aimed at common prosperity.

"We should strengthen ourselves with the hard work and creativity of all our people and pursue development by boosting internal drivers and making peaceful use of external resources," Xi's critical insight profoundly uncovers the essence of Chinese modernization.

Presenting a new vision of modernization and representing the direction of human civilization's progress, Chinese modernization pioneers a new path for humanity toward modernization and establishes a new form of human civilization.

In June 2024, the conference marking the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence was held in Beijing.

Seven decades ago, confronted with the tragic devastation of hot wars and the divisions of the Cold War, the newly established PRC offered the historical solution of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. Today, facing the major question of "what kind of world to build and how to build it," China in new era offers the era's answer of proposing a community with a shared future for humanity.

From historical answers to the answers of the era, the international landscape changes, but what remains unchanged is China's commitment to world peace and development and its relentless pursuit of a just and reasonable international order.

Embracing the currents of history, we traverse the righteous path to achieve far-reaching goals.

Routes to national prosperity and the happiness of the people are unfolding beneath our feet across this expansive land. Above the vast ocean, the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link broke 10 world records, proving that Chinese modernization is achieved through actions.

In the Yangtze River Delta, thousands of kilometers of railways extend as a "green corridor," transforming transportation lines into ecological lines, interpreting Chinese modernization as a modernization of harmonious coexistence of man and nature.

The powerful voice of history consistently transcends time and space, resonating through the ages.

Xi pointed out that Chinese modernization is our answer to the major historical question of how to awaken the 'sleeping lion' and realize national rejuvenation. It is to choose our own path and do our own thing.

Significant advancements always begin at the outset. We recognize that the broad road does not guarantee a smooth journey, and "advancing Chinese modernization is a whole new endeavor; on the journey ahead, we will inevitably be confronted with problems, risks, and challenges."

On this new journey, toward this new advancement, it is essential to stay focused on our set goals, enhance historical initiative, and continuously push forward the great cause of nation-building and national rejuvenation.

To forge our own path, we must uphold historical confidence.

In 2019, amid increased risks and challenges, 'China's GDP per capita surpassed the $10,000 mark. During three years of fighting the pandemic, China's economy grew at an average annual rate of 4.5 percent, significantly above the global average. In the first half of 2024, a growth rate of 5 percent still leads globally.

"China's development and growth, driven by its own inherent logic, will not be stopped by external forces." This internal logic is rooted in the trials and glories of the Chinese nation and nourished by the formidable power of the Chinese people.

To walk our own path, we must always strive together in unity.

Wang Yongzhi, Wang Zhenyi, Li Zhensheng… The recipients of the Medal of the Republic and national honorary titles represent the countless outstanding individuals who have contributed to the cause of the Party and the people. With their firm ideals and beliefs and relentless spirit of struggle, they have achieved extraordinary accomplishments.

Unity and struggle are the most distinctive spiritual symbols of the CPC and the Chinese people, representing the necessary path for the CPC to lead the people in creating historical achievements. Hardworking farmers, industrious workers, risk-taking entrepreneurs, and soldiers defending the country… people from all walks of life are sweating and forging ahead, forming a mighty current of progress on the new journey and contributing to the new era.

On this new journey, united under the banner of the CPC as "a solid piece of steel," when hundreds of millions of people think and act as one, we can surely accomplish anything we set out to do.

To forge our own path, we must be skilled at overcoming challenges.

Facing countless difficulties and persevering through countless dangers, the Chinese people have fought tenaciously against foreign aggression, battled bloodily when the country was shattered, strived vigorously when everything needed to be rebuilt, and advanced with the times. Adversities have tested and strengthened the Chinese people.

The grand cause of national rejuvenation we aspire to create today is not about achieving success in tranquil circumstances, nor enjoying the fruits of flowers and applause. By taking the initiative in the face of opportunities, confronting difficulties head-on, and actively managing risks, we will surely win even greater victories.

The path is as firm as a whetstone, and the journey is boundless. Xi's words echo profoundly:

"Practice has amply demonstrated that as long as our path, theory, system, and culture are correct, we remain steadfast, tenacious, perseverant, and unremitting, we continuously advance toward our great objectives, and we are unshakeable in the face of difficulty, our goals will be achieved. Our goals will certainly be achieved!"

China's intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test launch on Wednesday is a routine military training that is completely legitimate and reasonable, a Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.

The launch aimed to test the performance of weapon and equipment, as well as troops training level, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang said at a regular press conference on Thursday.

Zhang stressed that China's nuclear policy is highly stable, consistent and predictable. 

China always follows a policy of no-first-use of nuclear weapons and a nuclear strategy that focuses on self-defense, does not engage in an arms race, committed itself not to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against nonnuclear states or in nuclear-free region, and keeps its nuclear capabilities at the minimum level required by national security, the spokesperson said.

The PLA's news media center on Thursday released photos of the test launch of ICBM on Chinese social media platforms, showing the moment the missile was launched.

Zhang's remarks came after the Chinese Defense Ministry announced on Wednesday that the PLA Rocket Force launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a dummy warhead to the high seas in the Pacific Ocean at 08:44 am on Wednesday, and the missile fell into expected sea areas.

The Xinhua News Agency reported on Wednesday that China had informed the relevant countries prior to the launch.

The Pentagon praised China for its transparency before the test launch, which helped prevent miscalculation, in a sign that military communication between the two countries is improving, Bloomberg reported on Thursday.

Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that China is engaged in the development of its armed forces and has the full right to test missiles, Russian news agency Tass reported on Wednesday.

AP reported on Thursday that "China rarely tests ICBMs out in international waters, with some experts tracing the last such deployment back to May 1980."

The test verified the reliability of the PLA's nuclear arsenal, a crucial component of credible nuclear deterrence, vital to both China's national defense and global peace and stability, according to experts reached by the Global Times.

African officials and business representatives expressed their high expectations for  cooperation with China regarding digital transformation which can help with Africa's industrial upgrade at the ongoing third Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE). 

The annual expo is held in Hangzhou, East China's Zhejiang Province, from Wednesday to Sunday, an annual international expo that attracts companies from both home and abroad with cutting-edge products and diverse services.

Hosted by China's Ministry of Commerce and Zhejiang provincial government, one highlight of this year's edition is digital trade cooperation between China and African countries, the Global Times observed on-site. 

Speaking at the expo, Robinson Jean Louis, Ambassador of Madagascar to China, said through this event, Madagascar can boost fruitful cooperation with China especially in digital trade and innovation and he looks forward to leveraging this opportunity to bring more digital technologies to Madagascar.

Tichaona Mashiri, founder and CEO of DBI Intelligent Technology Group in South Africa, is excited about the new possibilities for his business here.

"We come here to see if there are companies that we can build partnership within areas such as telecommunications and cybersecurity, areas that our business operates in South Africa... There is a lot of things we can learn from this event in terms of technology exposure," Mashiri told the Global Times. The business opportunities are huge and there are technologies and products of Chinese companies which they can adopt back home in South Africa, Mashiri said. 

Data from China's Ministry of Commerce shows that China's digital trade is developing rapidly. In the first half of 2024, China's services trade delivered digitally reached 1.42 trillion yuan ($202 billion), an increase of 3.7 percent. During the same period, cross-border e-commerce imports and exports reached 1.22 trillion yuan, an increase of 10.5 percent. China-Africa trade has been an important part of the digital trend.

Through digital platforms, African products find more efficient way to enter the vast Chinese market, industry insiders said.

At the Africa booth at the expo, African products such as Ethiopian coffee, Kenyan tea, South African red wine and Nigerian cashews are on display. A professional host is promoting these products via livestreaming to Chinese consumers.

"We use cross-border e-commerce livestreaming and other platforms to bring Africa's high-quality products into the Chinese market in a more efficient and effective way... At the same time, we are also helping Chinese companies, including those in cross-border e-commerce and online payment, enter the African market, boosting the region's digital economy," Xie Qi, director of Zhejiang-Africa Service Center, a non-profit organization promoting trade between Zhejiang Province and African countries, told the Global Times.   

With digitalization being the global trend, China-Africa trade, which is highly complementary, will unlock more impetus for growth, Xie said.

China’s permanent representative to the United Nations Fu Cong denounced the indiscriminate attacks on Lebanese civilians through wireless communication device explosions as “outrageous” and “something unheard of in history,” while calling for Israel to abandon its reliance on force and refrain from further risky actions that could plunge the Middle East into new disasters.

Fu expressed deep concern over the potential escalation of tensions between Lebanon and Israel during an emergency session of the UN Security Council, and urged all parties to exercise “maximum restraint.”

Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border have been escalating since October 8, 2023, when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel in support of Hamas. The latest explosions of pagers and handheld radios across Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday have resulted in 37 deaths and 2,931 injuries, the Xinhua News Agency reported Thursday, citing Lebanese Health Minister Firas Abiad.

Fu said the attack using remote-controlled communication devices, which caused mass civilian casualties and panic, is something “unheard of in history,” and such actions constitute “a serious violation of a nation’s sovereignty and security, a blatant breach of international law, particularly humanitarian law, and a complete disregard for human life.” 

“The brutality of the attack and its heinous nature are outrageous and deserve the strongest condemnation. China called for a comprehensive and timely investigation into the incident to hold the planners and perpetrators accountable,” Fu said.

“The destruction of a nation’s critical infrastructure using these tools as weapons has set a dangerous precedent and could provoke other terrorist or extremist forces. This not only highlights the immediate severity of the situation, but also exposes potential future security risks and hidden dangers,” Zhu Yongbiao, executive director of the Research Center for the Belt and Road at Lanzhou University, told the Global Times on Saturday.

The Chinese envoy also emphasized the precariousness of the current situation in the Middle East, as Israel on one hand continues its ongoing military actions in Gaza that have claimed the lives of more than 40,000 Palestinians, while on the other hand escalating tensions along its border with Lebanon.

China specifically called on Israel to abandon its reliance on force, immediately cease its military operations in Gaza, stop infringing on Lebanon's sovereignty and security, and refrain from further risky actions that could plunge the region into new disasters, Fu said.

Israeli launched an air strike on the southern suburb of Lebanon’s capital Beirut, killing at least 14 people with another 66 wounded, including five children, said Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health on Friday. Lebanese group Hezbollah’s senior commander Ibrahim Aqil was also downed in the attack, the group has confirmed, Al Jazeera reported on Friday. 

Multiple aerial bombs exploded around the camp of China's 22nd batch of peacekeeping troops in Lebanon on Thursday. The shockwaves and debris from the explosions damaged some facilities in the camp, but fortunately no one was injured, China Central Television reported on Saturday. The troops were in the midst of their daily peak physical training at the time of the explosions, and the bombing took place just 730 meters away from the camp, the report said.

The Unspoken Mastery - Lin Gang's Centenary Art Exhibition opened on Wednesday at the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) Art Museum in China's capital Beijing.   

According to CAFA, as Lin, an outstanding professor at CAFA and a prominent figure in China's oil painting community, enters his centennial year in 2024, this large-scale retrospective exhibition is being held to showcase his prolific artistic achievements. 

Having studied in the former Soviet Union, Lin was awarded the Pushkin Medal by the Russian Ministry of Culture in 1999 and was appointed an honorary professor at the Ilya Repin St. Petersburg State Academy of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture in Russia. 

Lin applied his knowledge and insights to teaching, making ­significant contributions to the development of the oil painting education in China.

The exhibition features a vast collection of representative works from various periods of Lin's career, along with a wealth of related documents, creative notes, and other artistic materials. The exhibition will run until October 13.

Editor's Note:

The year 2024 ushers in the second golden decade of the joint building of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) after the initiative has already yielded many fruitful results worldwide. Looking forward to the new stage of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation over the coming 10 years, the Global Times Institute (GTI) recently conducted a public awareness survey of the BRI in 13 countries around the world to understand how people overseas view the BRI in relation to global affairs, their own country, and themselves, and to understand the future expectations of the overseas public for the Belt and Road cooperation.

The survey covered 12 Belt and Road partner countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Oceania, as well as one BRICS member state - Brazil, totaling 13 countries, and was conducted in 12 languages including English, Arabic, Russian, Kazakh, and Turkish.

The survey was conducted from May 27 to June 21, using online surveys, telephone interviews, face-to-face interviews, and other methods to collect data. Approximately 11,000 valid questionnaires in total were collected and the sample subjects were residents over 18 years old in each country.
By GT staff reporters

In the annals of world history, the famous Silk Road once connected countries in Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and China. This route not only facilitated trade between the countries along its path but also promoted cultural exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations among different countries and regions.

Today, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by China is promoting joint development and prosperity among the countries along the Eurasian and African routes. This initiative is allowing people from various countries to share a harmonious, peaceful, and prosperous life, continuing the legacy of connectivity and cooperation that the Silk Road symbolized centuries ago.

The latest survey conducted by the Global Times Institute (GTI) found out that a significant number of respondents had heard of the BRI. Compared with plans or initiatives proposed by other countries or international organizations, more respondents expressed optimism about the role that the BRI plays in the world across different countries and regions, ranking above the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor proposed by the US and the Global Gateway strategy proposed by the European Union.

Vietnamese respondents had the highest awareness of the BRI, with 87 percent knowing about it. Respondents from Laos and Indonesia generally have higher rates of agreement with the main concepts or practices of the BRI.

Laotian respondents have the highest positive agreements on the initiative actively sharing poverty alleviation experiences and emphasizing green development (both at 95 percent), while Indonesian respondents were most in agreement with the BRI increasing technological investment to improve resource efficiency (91 percent).

Pakistan also has the highest agreement rate for actively sharing poverty alleviation experiences; respondents from Saudi Arabia and Turkey are most in agreement with emphasizing green development; and Kenyan respondents also have a 90 percent agreement rate for increasing technological investment to improve resource efficiency.

Muhammad Zamir Assadi, editor at the Internews Pakistan, told the Global Times on Sunday that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), one of the flagship projects under the BRI, has changed the overall economic landscape of Pakistan as it has successfully attracted the attention of other international community in addition to attracting foreign investment to the country.

"We have witnessed the interest of middle eastern countries to who have shown their intent to invest under the framework of CPEC that will again bring more positive impact to Pakistani economy in various fields," he said.

He told the Global Times that the BRI also had enormous impact on his personal career. Back in 2016, he was given his first opportunity to visit China under one of the BRI projects that opened new avenues for him to learn about China and the visit strengthened his professional skills and enabled him to get important position in Pakistan's news industry.

"I feel a pride for me to lead a dedicated team on China affairs and to act as a media guide for disseminating information on China affairs in Pakistan in various languages," he told the Global Times.

Respondents have confidence in China's future efforts to achieve greater success in promoting the BRI, and being part of the BRI and deepening cooperation receive strong support overall, the survey found.

The joint construction of the BRI will become one of the most important ways for China to fulfill its responsibilities as a major country in the international community, experts said.

A majority of respondents are happy to see more countries join the BRI, and look forward to its positive effects on promoting global development and narrowing the gap between rich and poor countries. Nearly half of the respondents would be pleased to see the US participate in the BRI.

The survey also showed that nearly 70 percent of Brazilian respondents support their country joining the BRI.

The long-term sustainability of Belt and Road projects is a priority for most respondents, with cooperation in infrastructure construction being the most anticipated in many countries.

In a new phase of the cooperation under the BRI, respondents are most looking forward to prioritizing cooperation on infrastructure construction, with 52 percent specifically mentioning this point; the proportion of those looking forward to cooperation in ecological environment protection, public health, daily life, and education fields is also around 40 percent.
Assadi told the Global Times that Pakistan has prioritized its development needs as per the local requirements of the local people based on the national conditions aligning with their national interests.

"Pakistan is looking forward to the cooperation from China in the field of agriculture, industrialization, upgradation of the railway infrastructure as this is significant for the socio-economic development of Pakistan, investment in improvement of medical and education sector, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, internet of things, big data, the auto sector, science and technology, space sciences, logistics, aviation, oil and gas resources, and natural gas hydrate and others," he said.

Public benefits

The key to sound relations between countries lies in the affinity between their peoples. China announced at the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in October 2023 that it will carry out practical cooperation under the BRI, promoting both signature projects and "small yet smart" quality of life programs, including 1,000 small-scale livelihood assistance projects.

When asked whether they look forward to and are willing to participate in future BRI projects related to their own quality of life, over 70 percent of respondents in the 13 countries surveyed provided a positive response, with over half expressing a willingness to participate.

In Kenya, Indonesia, and Vietnam, the proportion of respondents looking forward to such projects was close to or exceeded 90 percent, with at least 70 percent willing to participate.

Under the BRI cooperation framework, more than half of the respondents were willing to work for Chinese enterprises/institutions/projects established locally, while over 30 percent was open to the idea.

The primary reason cited was the opportunity to learn more professional skills, which was mentioned by nearly 60 percent of respondents on average across the 13 countries. Many respondents also cited higher income, better career development opportunities, and a more stable labor market and social benefits.

Cui Hongjian, a professor from the Country and Area Studies Academy with Beijing Foreign Studies University, told the Global Times that BRI projects have delivered tangible benefits to local areas, most notably by helping to solve employment issues.

Regarding cultural exchanges and cooperation under the BRI, respondents were more willing to participate in cross-border tourism/festival activities, followed by experiencing or learning about traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) cultural projects. Applying for Chinese scholarships, education funds, and participating in university/student exchange programs were also popular.

He Wenping, a research fellow from the Institute of West Asian and African Studies under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times that "cultural exchanges should go hand in hand with infrastructure construction; wherever infrastructure projects go, cultural exchanges should follow."

Recently, "China Travel" has become a hot topic on overseas social media, with foreign YouTubers frequently visiting China. Not only have they gained views, but the realistic portrayals in their videos have also broken the longstanding information cocoon about China among foreign people.

Survey data shows that over 80 percent of respondents in the 13 countries were willing to visit China in the future, with 60 percent expressing a desire to travel to China, and over 20 percent willing to work, go on business trips, or study in China.

High hopes

Regarding the positive impacts the BRI can bring to the world, more than half of the respondents in the 13 countries expect the initiative to promote global development and narrow the international wealth gap.

Nearly half of the respondents hope that the BRI will unite countries, enhance mutual understanding and tolerance among people of different countries, promote cultural exchanges and integration, and foster a fairer world order.

Regarding media criticisms that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is "neocolonialism" and creates a "debt trap," 72 percent of respondents have a clear stance on this issue. Among them, an average of 13 percent of respondents across 13 countries believe these accusations are baseless attacks, 24 percent consider them misunderstandings, and 21 percent think they represent bias. Additionally, 28 percent view these claims as risk warnings.

When asked about the possibility of more countries joining the BRI in the future, 61 percent of respondents said they would welcome it, with particularly high proportions in Kenya (77 percent) and Brazil (73 percent).

Wang Youming, director of the Institute of Developing Countries at the China Institute of International Studies in Beijing, believed that the public confidence in the BRI stems from the tangible, visible, and substantial achievements made over the past 11 years.

"These achievements have taken root in the participating countries, bringing benefits to local economic development, employment improvement, and people's livelihoods," he said.

President Xi Jinping emphasized continuous efforts to uphold, improve and run the system of people's congresses, the country's fundamental political system, to good effect at a meeting held on Saturday to celebrate the 70th founding anniversary of the National People's Congress.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, stressed the need to further firm up confidence in the path, theory, system and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The Shanghai Conservatory of Music successfully hosted the “Opera Performance Talent Training” report performance at the He Lüting Concert Hall in Shanghai on Friday. This event was part of the National Arts Fund’s 2024 annual art talent training funding project.    

The concert, Essence of Chinese and Foreign Classical Operas, featured a series of splendid opera duets, trios, and quartets performed by the students of the training program and accompanied by the Shanghai Opera House Orchestra.

Thirty young opera performers from various cultural troupes and art colleges across the country demonstrated the achievements they had made during the 30-day intensive training program. The concert was composed of excerpts from both Chinese and foreign operatic works, showcasing the students’ learning outcomes in vocal skills, language pronunciation, stage performance, and overall presentation.

The training curriculum covered multiple aspects of the development of opera, with expert classes focusing on various aspects of opera performance. Musicians such as baritone Liao Changyong provided valuable professional guidance to the students, drawing on their rich stage experience to offer detailed instruction on vocal techniques, musical processing and stage performance.

As a vital component of social aesthetic education, all four report concerts of this training program were open to the public. The initiative invited citizens to experience the beauty of opera up close, receiving a warm social response.

A recent exhibition of a Spanish artist held in Xuzhou, East China's Jiangsu Province marked the latest event heralding the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain in 2025.
Named "Different Cycles from Different Eras United by a Single Paintbrush," the exhibition at Xuzhou Art Museum features 119 artworks by Jorge Rando, one of the most internationally recognized Spanish artists and a main exponent of neo-expressionism in Spain.

During a recent interview, Rando told the Global Times that art is a universal language that promotes the cultural exchanges between China and Spain.

"Art is essential, not only in cultural exchanges between China and Spain, but it is and should always be an open door for relations between people and nations. Art speaks the same language in all countries around the world. Art unites people and teaches all humans that united we will be stronger and happier," Rando said.

"China and Spain are two great nations with an ancient culture and, despite the distance that separates us, with many similarities in the philosophical concept of life, the understanding between our two nations is enriched by cultural exchanges that are necessary and I would say even logical," said the 83-year-old artist.

As a prominent figure in Spanish neo-expressionism, Rando is renowned for his powerful depictions of human emotion, nature, and life. His work often explores themes such as motherhood, nature, and the human condition through cycles of paintings that include recognizable yet abstract figures.

The exhibition showcased some of Rando's paintings, created from the 1960s to the present, highlighting his artistic evolution and his deep emotional responses to nature, life, and humanity.

Deepening relations

The art exhibition is the result of the collaboration between Xuzhou and Rando's hometown Malaga, as it received strong support from various entities, including the Chinese Embassy in Spain, the Spanish Embassy in China, the Spanish Consulate General in Shanghai, and the governments of Xuzhou and Malaga.

The exhibition stands as a fresh testament to the deep friendship between the two cities.

Luis Calvo, the consul general of Spain in Shanghai, said that "in 2025, we will celebrate the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain. This exhibition has played a significant role in promoting bilateral cultural exchange."

Li Shuxia, member of the standing committee of the Xuzhou Municipal Party Committee and head of the publicity department, said that Xuzhou and Malaga share many similarities as cultural cities, transportation hubs, and tourist destinations. With the deepening relations between China and Spain, the exchanges and cooperation between these two cities have become increasingly frequent, solidifying their friendship and broadening prospects for future collaboration.

"This exhibition not only offers the public an elegant artistic experience and strengthens Xuzhou's reputation as a city of calligraphy and painting, but also serves as a vivid symbol of the deepening cultural exchange and friendship between China and Spain," said Li.

Rando also pulled off an exhibition in Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong Province from March to May this year, which is part of the larger celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Spain.
Destined connection

Rando said that he had connections with China since his birth and previous trips to China offered him a wealth of artistic inspiration.

"I was born in 1941. My first memories as a child are the smell of colored pencils and my constantly black fingers from the black ink; even then, China took hold in my subconscious… over time, my interest in Chinese culture matured," he recalled.

"My eyes were opened for the first time to the land of China when I arrived in 2019 in Xiangtan [Central China's Hunan Province] to admire the paintings by Qi Baishi at the Memorial Hall of Qi Baishi.

Born in 1864, Qi is the most creative master painter in the 20th century. He is noted for his watercolors featuring a huge variety of subjects.

During my stay in this beautiful and welcoming city, I was able to visit its surroundings and other places in Hunan. I got to know the beauty of its mountains that wanted to cover the sky with their green mantle. My eyes were unable to capture all of the paradise that embraced me at once but my mind did merge with that infinite light that began to guide my brushes beyond the picture frame," said Rando.

"In those moments of ecstasy, my eyes also discovered the silent fluttering of thousands of butterflies, of thousands of colors and of thousands of captured sensations. In that magnificent reverie the butterflies drew closer. They became my butterflies and showed me the beginning of nature. And that was when I began to paint them like a madman. That inspiration from China was brought to life in my artwork of My Butterflies in the following four years," he noted.

To Chinese students who wish to pursue an artistic career, Rando would make a request that they love art.

"Painting without love is just color without a soul. Don't forget that everything is moved by love and that we artists have a great responsibility in the society we live. I wish that in your artistic careers you always keep in mind that the triumph of the painter is painting," said the Spanish artist.

China's Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen rallied from one set down to achieve a 4-6, 6-4, 6-2 win over Amanda Anisimova of the US in the women's singles first round at the US Open on Monday.

"It's a very difficult match for a first round. She's a tough opponent to face, but I'm glad at the end I found a way to be through the match and win this match," Zheng said.

"I had this experience already, so this time when I had success in the Olympic Games, to come to the next tournament, I say, everything starts at zero. You are not any more the Olympic champion. Just be humble and try to work, fight every single match, because if you don't fight, you have a big chance to lose."

Wang Yafan also advanced to the second round after her opponent Maria Sakkari exited early due to an injury after the first set. However, the other two Chinese women's singles players on Monday faced first-round exits: Wang Xiyu lost to Diane Parry of France 7-6 (7/2), 7-6 (7/5), and Yuan Yue was defeated by Russia's Erika Andreeva 6-3, 7-6 (9/7).

In the men's singles, China's 19-year-old Shang Juncheng earned his first US Open win over Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan, 6-4, 3-6, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, in a match that lasted three hours and 34 minutes.

"Very happy and tired. Very tired. Interesting match against Alex. He has everything, he throws anything at you, some second-serve bombs, also drop shots, underarm serves, anything," Shang said. "You really have to focus the whole match, and I'm glad I did all the way till the end. It was just a good win, and hopefully I can continue." 

Another Chinese player, Bu Yunchao­kete, lost to Norway's Casper Ruud 7-6 (7/2), 6-2, 6-2.