Foreign powers have been warned by China’s President Xi Jinping that they will ‘get their heads bashed’ if they attempt to bully or influence the country.
At an event marking the centenary of the ruling Communist Party on Thursday, China’s President delivered a defiant speech. He said that Beijing would not allow any ‘sanctimonious preaching’, with the comments seeming to be directed towards the US. This statement comes as China has been facing criticism over human rights violations and the crackdown in Hong Kong.
In recent times, relations between the US and China have worsened over trade, espionage, and the pandemic. Taiwan is also a major source of tension since the democratic country views itself as a separate state, but Beijing views the island as a breakaway province. Due to its own laws, the US is required to provide the means to Taiwan if Beijing uses force to recapture the island.
On Thursday, Mr Xi that the idea to unify with Taiwan will be carried out with an ‘unshakeable commitment’. He said: “No one should underestimate the resolve, the will and ability of the Chinese people to defend their national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Thursday morning, 1st July saw military jet flypasts, cannon salutes and patriotic songs played to celebrate the 100th anniversary celebrations. Many of the carefully vetted crowd who were in attendance in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square were not wearing masks. In recent weeks, a media blitz promoting a party-approved version of China’s history has been seen. Hong Kong is also marking its handover anniversary on the same day.
Mr Xi spoke for about an hour explaining the role of the party in modern China stating that the country’s growth is thanks to the party. Attempts to separate the party from the people will fail.
He also said: “Only socialism can save China and only socialism with Chinese characteristics can develop China.” He added that, “We will never allow anyone to bully, oppress or subjugate China. Anyone who dares to try to do that will have their heads bashed bloody against the Great Wall of Steel forged by over 1.4 billion Chinese people.”
China has repeatedly accused Washington of trying to curb its growth. In the issue of Hong Kong and Macau – two places which both retain a ‘high degree of autonomy’ – he said that they should “accurately implement the principles of ‘One Country, Two Systems’.”
Xi Jinping was seen wearing a light grey suit which seemed to be identical to the one worn by the Communist Party founder in the famous portrait adorning one side of Tiananmen Square. He also praised the people for the ‘new world’ they have created also stating that this ‘new world’ would not have been achieved without the Party.
Military jets, flown by pilots loyal to the Party and the people, were flown over the crowd in formation of the number of 100.
