Beijing, September 30, 2024 – The Europe Today: On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping awarded the nation’s highest state honor in a ceremony ahead of the National Day celebrations, calling on the country to learn from its heroes and role models to contribute to the building of a strong and modern China.
Xi, who also serves as General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, presented medals to the recipients of national honors as the country marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, which will be commemorated on October 1.
Among those awarded the prestigious Medal of the Republic were veteran war hero Huang Zongde and medical scientist Wang Zhenyi. The National Honorary Titles were presented to ten distinguished individuals, including border patrolman Bayika Kalidibek, technician Xu Zhenchao, and actress Tian Hua. Additionally, the Friendship Medal was awarded to Dilma Rousseff, former President of Brazil and current President of the New Development Bank, in recognition of her contributions to Sino-Brazilian cooperation.
Addressing the gathering at the Great Hall of the People, Xi praised the Chinese Communist Party’s leadership, which he said had guided the nation in achieving both rapid economic growth and long-term social stability. He emphasized that China is now in a crucial period of building a modern socialist country and achieving national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization.
Xi urged Party members and citizens of all ethnicities to look to heroes and role models for inspiration, encouraging them to unite in their efforts to build a strong China. “We must remain loyal to the country, integrate personal aspirations with national goals, and realize our personal value by serving the country and its people,” Xi stated.
He further highlighted the importance of striving for excellence in everyday work and overcoming development challenges, stressing that the emergence of heroes across generations ensures the long-lasting success of the Party and the people’s cause.
In a heartfelt speech, Huang Zongde, a 93-year-old war veteran, dedicated his award to his comrades in the armed forces and the fallen heroes who had fought for China’s independence and prosperity.
Dilma Rousseff expressed deep gratitude for receiving the Friendship Medal and reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening the partnership between Brazil and China.
The ceremony, attended by over 1,000 guests, including senior leaders Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, and Han Zheng, concluded with group photographs of Xi and the award recipients.
