This year, on August 22, China commemorates the 120th anniversary of Deng Xiaoping's birth, marking a significant milestone in the nation's journey towards modernization. Across the country, the celebrations include the release of commemorative stamps and seminars dedicated to Deng Xiaoping Theory, acknowledging the profound impact of a leader who spearheaded China's reform and opening up.
Born in 1904, Deng Xiaoping was instrumental in initiating China's remarkable transformation. His pioneering policies set the foundation for the country's rapid economic growth and social development. Today, as China continues its pursuit of modernization, Deng's theories remain a guiding force, shaping the path forward.
A pivotal moment in Deng's leadership was his eight-day inspection tour in September 1978, covering regions such as Liaoning, Heilongjiang, Jilin, Hebei, and Tianjin. During this tour, he delivered the influential \"Northern Talks,\" where he emphasized the need to free the mind, focus on economic construction, adopt advanced international technologies, and implement modern economic management methods. These talks laid the groundwork for the major reforms that followed, steering China towards unprecedented growth.
In December 1978, the third plenary session of the 11th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China marked a historic turning point. The meeting officially redirected the Party's focus towards economic development, adopting the national policy of reform and opening up. Over the past four decades, these policies have propelled China's GDP from 367.9 billion yuan in 1978 to an astounding 126.06 trillion yuan in 2023. This growth enabled China to surpass Japan in 2010, becoming the world's second-largest economy.
China's rapid expansion has significantly contributed to global economic growth, which has averaged around 2.91 percent annually since 1979. The nation's urbanization rate soared from 18 percent in 1978 to 63 percent in 2022, reshaping its social landscape. One of the most notable achievements has been the dramatic reduction in poverty. Nearly 800 million people have been lifted out of poverty since the reforms began, accounting for over 70 percent of the global reduction during the same period.
The significance of Deng's legacy extends beyond economic metrics. On July 1, 2021, during the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, the nation proudly announced the eradication of extreme poverty by 2020 and the establishment of a moderately prosperous society in all respects. These milestones are critical steps towards the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Integral to China's ascent has been its integration into the global economy. Deng's emphasis on opening up was evident during his historic visits to Japan in October 1978 and to the United States in early 1979, shortly after diplomatic relations were established. These visits symbolized China's commitment to engaging with the world and participating actively in the global economic system.
Most recently, the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee concluded last month with a resolution on further deepening reforms to advance Chinese modernization. The resolution outlined over 300 measures aimed at enhancing innovation capabilities and narrowing the urban-rural divide, thereby reinforcing the foundation for China's continued growth and the rejuvenation of the nation.
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China commemorates 120th anniversary of Deng Xiaoping's birth
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