China’s Xi praises former president Jiang’s contribution in show of party unity
President Xi Jinping led a grand ceremony in Beijing to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of former leader Jiang Zemin, emphasizing party unity and continuity. The event, attended by top officials, served to reinforce Xi's leadership ahead of a major power reshuffle next year, with Xi praising Jiang's contributions while subtly aligning them with his own governance style.
Why it matters
This high-profile commemoration signals a strategic display of political stability and solidarity within the Chinese Communist Party, reinforcing Xi Jinping's authority and preparing the ground for his anticipated renewal of leadership for another term.
President Xi Jinping led commemorations of the 100th anniversary of the birth of former state leader Jiang Zemin at a grand ceremony in Beijing, in a show of political continuity and party unity ahead of next year’s major power reshuffle.
In a 40-minute speech, Xi addressed thousands of officials and delegates from various sectors at the ceremony, held in the Great Hall of the People, delivering a speech that highlighted Jiang’s contribution to the party and the country.
A large portrait of Jiang was displayed above the rostrum – a practice reserved for deceased former top leaders like Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping – and all seven members of the Standing Committee of the Politburo, as well as a long list of retired state leaders, were present, in a show of solidarity within the party.
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