Xi Jinping Honors Jiang Zemin Ahead of Party Congress, Emphasizing Unity and Legacy

Chinese President Xi Jinping lauded former leader Jiang Zemin on the centenary of his birth, positioning Jiang's legacy within the framework of the Communist Party's enduring strength and his own policy continuity. Speaking at a commemorative event in Beijing, Xi highlighted Jiang's contributions to China's reform and opening-up policies and his adept handling of various crises.

A key focus of Xi's address was Jiang's role during the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests. Xi referred to the events as a "serious political turmoil" and praised Jiang, then Shanghai's party secretary, for implementing the "correct policy decisions" of the Party Central Committee. This framing reinforces the Party's narrative of maintaining stability through decisive action and underscores Jiang's loyalty to the leadership.

Xi further lauded Jiang as an "outstanding leader" of "socialism with Chinese characteristics," crediting him with establishing the framework for a socialist market economy and driving rapid economic growth. Jiang's role in guiding China into the World Trade Organization and navigating challenges like the 1997 Asian financial crisis and the 1998 floods were also cited as significant achievements. Xi quoted Jiang emphasizing the need to strengthen Party leadership as economic reforms progressed, suggesting that economic development occurred under strict Party control.

The commemoration, occurring roughly a year before the pivotal 21st National Congress where Xi is expected to secure an unprecedented fourth term, is widely interpreted as a strategic move. Analysts suggest Xi aims to consolidate power by invoking the legitimacy of past leaders, fostering party loyalty, and signaling a connection between his current policies and the successes of previous eras. This narrative of continuity seeks to preemptively address potential uncertainties surrounding upcoming personnel changes and solidify his grip on the Party's direction.

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We must unite more closely around the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping as the core.