Ambassador Yu Dunhai Addresses 105th Anniversary of the CPC
July 1, 2026, marks a significant milestone with the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Under the Party’s robust leadership, China has experienced rapid economic growth alongside prolonged social stability. Over the past few decades, the nation has undergone a transformative journey, establishing itself as the world’s second-largest economic power and a key contributor to global growth. Many observers often inquire about the factors behind China’s extraordinary success, and the answer predominantly lies in the CPC’s leadership.
The Rise from National Turmoil
In the early 20th century, China faced deep national humiliation, internal strife, and foreign aggression. The complexities of this period left the country vulnerable and the populace suffering. Founded during this tumultuous time in 1921, the CPC undertook the critical mission of national rejuvenation. Since its inception, the Party has remained dedicated to securing the happiness of the Chinese people and revitalizing the nation. United under the CPC’s leadership, the Chinese populace has persevered through immense challenges, redirected the future of the country, and reconstructed the narrative of modern Chinese history.
A Journey of Transformation
Over the last 105 years, the CPC has undergone remarkable transformation, propelling China to rise, prosper, and wield significant global influence—creating one of the most compelling narratives in thousands of years of Chinese civilization. Today, China is focused on achieving high-quality development, characterized by increasingly sophisticated industrial systems, thriving emerging industries, and major scientific and technological breakthroughs. This momentum aligns with the successful completion of the 14th Five-Year Economic and Social Development Plan and the commencement of the 15th Five-Year Plan, positioning China firmly on its path toward the long-term goals set for 2035.
Leadership Roots in National Reality
Both history and current events underscore that the success of China’s revolution, development, and reform can be primarily attributed to CPC leadership. Grounded in China’s unique realities, the Party has guided the Chinese people in carving out a modernization path distinct from the Western template. This approach challenges the widely held notion that modernization equates to Westernization, thereby expanding the potential developmental strategies available to other nations, while providing a practical and replicable framework for countries pursuing their own development trajectories.
Commitment to Self-Reliance and People’s Welfare
The CPC has consistently championed the principles of independence and self-reliance, ensuring the future remains firmly in Chinese hands. The Party asserts that the Chinese populace must determine its own development path, reflecting the understanding that no universal template exists for modernization. Reliance on external models or forces seldom leads to sustained success. Additionally, the CPC has prioritized a people-first development philosophy, focusing on enhancing the welfare of the populace. The eradication of absolute poverty, alongside lifting over 700 million rural residents out of poverty, showcases this commitment. With a nearly universal compulsory education enrollment and vast social security systems, these advancements have fostered a growing sense of fulfillment and security among the Chinese people.
Innovation and Ideological Evolution
A hallmark of the CPC’s resilience lies in its continuous self-reform. The Party’s ability to introspect and reinforce internal standards has been vital in maintaining a clean political environment. This commitment to combating corruption has yielded a mature governance structure, reinforcing the Party’s role as a guiding force behind socialism with Chinese characteristics. Furthermore, as it marks its 105th anniversary, the CPC has introduced “Xi Jinping Party Construction Thought” as a major theoretical innovation, positioning it as a cornerstone for advancing China’s modernization and achieving national rejuvenation. Through a global perspective and an analysis of political successes and failures worldwide, this philosophy offers profound insights into the future of governance.
Strengthening China-Nigeria Relations
For 105 years, the CPC has upheld its founding mission while fostering a robust partnership with Nigeria, which has persisted for 55 years. Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1971, both countries have navigated changing international dynamics through solidarity and mutual support. Their enduring political trust continues to flourish, enabling practical cooperation across various sectors, ultimately benefiting the citizens of both nations. Regardless of the international landscape, the CPC remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing long-term friendly relations with Nigeria, advocating for a modernization approach tailored to Nigeria’s unique circumstances, and focused on elevating the welfare of the Nigerian populace.
Looking Toward Future Collaboration
At this juncture of a new chapter in history, the CPC and the Chinese government are poised to collaborate with Nigeria to advance traditional friendships, enhance exchanges on governance, and bolster political trust. By transforming political agreements into tangible cooperation and fostering mutual learning between political entities, the goal is to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria. This endeavor aims to promote shared prosperity in Africa while fostering lasting peace and development on a global scale.
