Editor’s note

The year 2021 marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the CommunistParty of China (CPC). Under the Partys leadership, China has realized the greatleap from national independence to national development. Here are some basic facts about the CPC.

Q:The 19th Central Committee of CPCconvened its sixth plenary session in Beijing from November 8 to 11. The meeting hasadopted a landmark resolution on the major achievements and historical experience ofthe CPCs 100 years of endeavors. How tounderstand the release of this document?

A:An explanatory address was delivered by XiJinping, general secretary of the CPC CentralCommittee, at the meeting.“Our Party has always attached great importance to reviewing itshistorical experience,” said Xi when he explained the considerations on the session agenda.He hailed the significance of reviewing the Partys century-long journey, saying it will help builda broader consensus and stronger unity in willand action among all Party members and rallyand lead the Chinese people of all ethnic groupsin achieving new and great success in buildingsocialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era.

Xi also noted “taking a clear-cut stance against historical nihilism” and clearing up confusion and misunderstandings over certain majorquestions in the Partys history. Xi briefedthe session on the priorities in drafting theresolution:

First, the resolution must focus on the Partysmajor achievements and historical experienceover the past century, he said, noting the movewill help“pool our wisdom, strengthen our unity, and boost our confidence and morale.”

On the previous two resolutions on the Partyshistorical issues, adopted in 1945 and 1981respectively, Xi said“their basic points andconclusions remain valid.”

Second, the resolution must highlight the new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics, Xi said, noting this will help further fortify confidenceamong all Party members and focus on thecurrent endeavors.

Third, the resolutions appraisal of majorhistorical events, significant meetings, andimportant figures must be consistent with theCPC Central Committees existing conclusions, Xi said.

An ancient Chinese proverb goes that with history as a mirror, one can understand a states rise andfall. Similarly, for Xi, “paying homage”to thesehistoric sites is a chance to reflect on the CPCshistory and see its future.