Xi says CPC to develop China into 'great modern socialist country' by mid-21st century

BEIJING — Xi Jinping said Wednesday that the Communist Party of China will develop China into a "great modern socialist country" by the middle of the 21st century.

Xi made the remarks in a report to the 19th CPC National Congress in the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing.

This is the second stage of a two-stage development plan the CPC drew up for the period from 2020 to the middle of the 21st century.

Xi called the plan the CPC's "strategic vision for developing socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era."

In the first stage from 2020 to 2035, the CPC will build on the foundation created by the moderately prosperous society with a further 15 years of hard work to see that socialist modernization is basically realized, according to the plan.

In the second stage from 2035 to the middle of the 21st century, the CPC will, building on having basically achieved modernization, work hard for a further 15 years and develop China into a great modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious, and beautiful, according to the plan.

By the middle of the 21st century, the following goals will have been met:

-- New heights are reached in every dimension of material, political, cultural and ethical, social, and ecological advancement.

-- Modernization of China's system and capacity for governance is achieved.

-- China has become a global leader in terms of composite national strength and international influence.

-- Common prosperity for everyone is basically achieved.

-- The Chinese people enjoy happier, safer, and healthier lives.

The Chinese nation will become a proud and active member of the community of nations, said Xi.

The congress, China's most significant political meeting in five years, came at "the decisive stage in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects and at a critical moment as socialism with Chinese characteristics has entered a new era."