Communist Youth League convenes national congress

BEIJING - The Communist Youth League of China (CYLC), a 91-year-old mass youth organization under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), opened its 17th national congress on Monday.

On behalf of the league's current 89 million members, more than 1,500 CYLC delegates from across the country attended the opening session of the five-yearly congress in the Great Hall of the People.

All seven members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee - Xi Jinping, Li Keqiang, Zhang Dejiang, Yu Zhengsheng, Liu Yunshan, Wang Qishan and Zhang Gaoli -- also attended the ceremony.

In a keynote speech delivered to extend the CPC Central Committee's congratulations to the event, Liu Yunshan urged the youth to work hard to realize the "Chinese dream" of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Achieving the major goals of China's economic and social development that were put forth during the 18th National Congress of the CPC last year requires the continuous efforts of the country's young generations, Liu said.

He called on the youth to follow instructions made by CPC Central Committee General Secretary Xi Jinping and strive to improve their skills and morality.

Young people should continue to "consolidate their belief in the socialist path, theories and system with Chinese characteristics" and aim to become "advancers, explorers and contributors" in the realization of the Chinese dream, the official said.

He also spoke highly of the job that the CYLC has done since its founding in 1922 in working with the CPC in full cooperation and with one heart and mobilizing young people to strive for national independence, the liberation of the people and the country's prosperity.

BRAVERY & INNOVATION

Calling innovation the "source of power," Liu said it is the thing that a nation must count on to achieve continuous improvement and development.

He expressed hope that Chinese youth will always have the bravery to bring innovation and invention in fundamental research areas and key projects, as well as in common production fields and daily life.

China is at the critical stage for completing the building of a moderately prosperous country and "faces a very heavy task of fostering reform, development and ensuring stability," the official said.

Young Chinese people, whatever their circumstances and backgrounds, should aim to stand out by starting from ordinary positions and working diligently, he said.

Moreover, Liu said he hoped each young person always bears in mind the nation and its people, and be someone of responsibility and integrity, thus facilitating social harmony in China.