Celebrations in Beijing to mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of China's ruling Communist Party kicked off on Thursday morning with a flyby of fighter jets and helicopters at Tiananmen Square in the centre of the capital. In an hour-long televised address from Tiananmen Square after watching fighter jets form a "100" in a flyby, Xi Jinping pledged to build up China's military, committed to the "reunification" of Taiwan and stressed the autonomy held by Hong Kong and Macau. Let us take a look at some of the images from the event: -
"The people of China are not only good at destroying the old world, they have also created a new world," said Xi Jinping, China's most powerful leader since Mao Zedong. "Only socialism can save China." (AP Photo)
-
Around 30 aircraft formed a "100" as crowds cheered under the gaze of the nation's leaders, including President Xi Jinping, seated at the southern ramparts of the Forbidden City. (Reuters Photo)
-
China will build up its military to safeguard its sovereignty, security and development, elevating it to world-class standards, Xi said in his address. (Reuters Photo)
In a televised address from the square, Xi said China had achieved its centenary goal of building "a moderately prosperous society." (Reuters Photo) -
Thousands of school children accompanied with military bands sang songs praising the CPC. (Reuters Photo)
-
While there was no military parade, army, air force and navy personnel participated in a brief march. (AP Photo)
-
The people of China would never allow any foreign force to bully, oppress, or subjugate them, Xi said. (Reuters Photo)
-
Xi and the party are riding high as China recovers briskly from the COVID-19 outbreak and takes a more assertive stand on the global stage. (Reuters Photo)
Income Tax Return Deadline, Due Date Extension 2025 LIVE: New ITR filing last date to be announced as expected by taxpayers?
