Yan’an, China — President Xi Jinping has called for strengthening political loyalty within China’s military during a pivotal conference held in Yan’an, the historic revolutionary base in northwest China’s Shaanxi Province.
Addressing the Central Military Commission (CMC) Political Work Conference from Monday to Wednesday, Xi, who is also the general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the CMC, emphasized the necessity of ensuring a solid political foundation for building a strong military.
The conference marks a significant moment, taking place 10 years after a similar meeting in Gutian County, Fujian Province. During the sessions, participants discussed strategies to promote political work within the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Xi underscored the importance of upholding the Party’s absolute leadership over the military. He called for the development of a high-quality cadre team that is loyal, disciplined, and capable of fulfilling the mission of strengthening the armed forces.
On Monday afternoon, Xi led members of the CMC and heads of various departments to the revolutionary site at Wangjiaping, where the CMC’s headquarters were stationed from August 1937 to March 1947. The delegation visited the former residences of late revolutionary leaders, including Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and Zhu De, paying homage to their contributions and revolutionary spirit.
“The Yan’an conference marks a return to the roots of the military,” Xi stated, highlighting the symbolic significance of the location. He urged senior military officers to shoulder the responsibilities entrusted to them by the Party and the people, reinforcing the commitment to a strong and loyal military force.
Reflecting on past achievements, Xi noted that after the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee held the 2014 military political work conference in Gutian, which improved political conduct through rectification initiatives.
By revisiting these historic sites and reaffirming core principles, Xi aims to inspire the current generation of military leaders to continue the legacy of dedication and loyalty that has defined the PLA since its inception.
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Xi Jinping stresses enhancing political loyalty in the military
cgtn.com