News & Politics

Xi Jinping Revisits Yan'an, Emphasizing Party's Indomitable Spirit and Resilience

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also known as Xi Jinping, led the Central Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China on a visit to the revolutionary site in Yan'an, Shaanxi province. Yan'an was once the political and military center of the Chinese Communist Party during the Chinese Civil War. This visit occurred after the conclusion of the 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party.

19 February 2024

In his speech, Xi emphasized the indomitable spirit of the Chinese Communist Party, stating that the Party's unwavering determination to fight and refine its character has been shaped by the "rushing to pass the exam" mindset. Xi highlighted that in Yan'an, the older generation of revolutionaries, including Mao Zedong, lived in caves, ate coarse food, and wore clothes made of cloth - a lifestyle that represented the spirit of "resisting hardship and being self-reliant."

Weibo, China's equivalent of Twitter, saw numerous reactions to the visit, with many users praising the Party's resilience and strong foundation. However, some expressed skepticism and questioned if the "rushing to pass the exam" spirit was still relevant in today's context.

User @ZhangChen commented, "It's great to see the President reminding the nation of the Party's humble beginnings and the sacrifices made by its leaders. We must carry on this spirit of struggle and hard work." Another user, @LiXin, said, "The Party has come a long way since its inception, and the unyielding spirit of Yan'an is the cornerstone of its success."

On the other hand, some users were more critical of the messaging. @WangYan remarked, "While I appreciate the historical context, I'm not sure how relevant this 'rushing to pass the exam' mentality is in today's world. Times have changed, and we need to adopt a more modern mindset."

Despite the mixed reactions, Xi's visit to Yan'an underscored the importance of the Party's roots and its commitment to upholding its founding principles. The event was widely covered by Chinese media and served as a reminder of the Party's enduring resilience and its ability to adapt to changing times while staying true to its core values.

The reverence for the Party's past is evident in many aspects of Chinese society, including its educational system. The phrase "rushing to pass the exam" is often used to encourage students to work hard and persevere in their studies, reflecting the Party's emphasis on diligence and perseverance. This mindset has been a driving force behind China's rapid economic and technological advancements in recent decades.

As the Chinese Communist Party reflects on its illustrious journey spanning over a century, it is evident that the spirit of Yan'an remains a guiding force. Xi's visit to the revolutionary site serves as a powerful reminder of the Party's storied past and its commitment to carrying on the legacy of its founding fathers. As China continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges of the modern world, the spirit of Yan'an, with its emphasis on resilience, hard work, and self-reliance, will undoubtedly remain a crucial component of the nation's character.