China's 19th Party Congress

19th Party Congress: Remain true to our original aspiration and keep our mission firmly in mind, says Xi Jinping

Chinas President Xi Jinping (centre) sings the National Anthem with former presidents Jiang Zemin (right) and Hu Jintao (left) during the opening of the 19th Communist Party Congress at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, on Oct 18, 2017. PHOTO: AFP

BEIJING (CHINA DAILY/ASIA NEWS NETWORK) - Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday (Oct 18) started delivering a report to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) on behalf of the 18th Central Committee of the CPC.

Here are highlights of his speech so far.

CHINA ENTERS NEW ERA

The congress opened as socialism with Chinese characteristics enters a new era, said Mr Xi, in his report, which stresses the securing of a decisive victory in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, and striving for the great success of socialism with Chinese characteristics for a new era.

Elaborating on the theme of the congress, Mr Xi said: "Remain true to our original aspiration and keep our mission firmly in mind... and work tirelessly to realise the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

"The original aspiration and the mission of Chinese Communists is to seek happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation."

China is still in an important period of strategic opportunity for development. The prospects are bright but the challenges are severe, Mr Xi said.

HISTORIC SHIFTS

Mr Xi said that historic shifts have been made in the cause of the Communist Party of China and the country in the past five years.

GDP RISES

China's GDP rose from 54 trillion yuan (about S$11 trillion) to 80 trillion yuan over the past five years.

OUT OF POVERTY

More than 60 million people have been lifted out of poverty over the past five years, Mr Xi said.

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