On September 10, at the base of the Qinling Mountains in Baoji, Shaanxi Province, General Secretary Xi Jinping took a moment to reflect in front of the He Zun bronze vessel, a national treasure that holds the earliest known written instance of the term “China,” inscribed with the phrase “Zhai Zi Zhongguo.”
In contemplating this significant heritage, Xi remarked, “With 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, we must dive deeper into its meanings and spirit. We need to study and interpret its essence and share the profound wisdom it contains. This will enhance our respect and love for our culture, bolster pride in Chinese civilization, foster a spirit of patriotism, and ensure that our illustrious traditional culture is passed down through generations.”
Xi’s commitment to exploring the richness and depth of Chinese culture has sparked deep reflections. Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, he has introduced a series of new ideas regarding cultural development for the new era. These concepts not only echo the Party’s practical experiences in cultural governance but also enrich and advance the Marxist cultural theory.
In October 2023, during the National Conference on Propaganda and Cultural Work, Xi formally introduced his Cultural Thought. Over the course of just one year, it has demonstrated remarkable truth and strength, offering substantial ideological support for the comprehensive advancement of modernization in a uniquely Chinese way and for national rejuvenation.
Xi embodies strong cultural confidence. During a visit to Tianshui in Gansu Province, known as the “Hometown of Fuxi,” he highlighted the importance of further studying Chinese civilization while protecting and passing on invaluable cultural heritage. He expressed that the wisdom and creativity of our ancestors must continuously inspire future generations and cultivate a deeper sense of national pride and self-assurance.
The Maiji Mountain Grottoes, which have been constructed over centuries, particularly moved Xi. After touring this “Oriental Sculpture Museum,” he shared, “Seeing these embodiments of civilization and art naturally fills us with national pride.”
Throughout his travels—from Yuelu Academy to the Jiayuguan Great Wall, the San Su Temple to the Grand Canal, and the Anyang Yin Ruins to the ancient city of Jiaohe—Xi consistently points out that the most precious aspects of Chinese civilization have emerged through enduring trials. In his 2012 leadership role during the drafting of the Party report for the 18th National Congress, he introduced the term “cultural confidence,” highlighting its significance in the framework of socialism with Chinese characteristics.
He stated, “Only a culturally confident nation can stand firm, endure the test of time, and achieve long-term progress.” Xi emphasized that the continuity of Chinese civilization, despite numerous challenges over thousands of years, represents a miracle of human achievement and serves as the bedrock of our confidence.
Recently, comprehensive initiatives have been launched to preserve and promote traditional Chinese culture. Key discussions at the 20th Party Congress reaffirmed a commitment to strengthen cultural confidence and develop an advanced socialist culture, ensuring the historic project of inheriting and promoting China’s rich traditional culture remains a priority.
With a grand historical perspective, Xi often links China’s cultural roots to its great rivers—especially the Yellow River and the Yangtze River—which have nourished Chinese civilization for millennia. As the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic approached, he reiterated the necessity of safeguarding these vital resources: “Only under the leadership of the Communist Party, utilizing the advantages of the socialist system, can we achieve a historic shift from passive to proactive management of the Yellow River.”
At the recent celebration marking 75 years since the founding of the PRC, Xi proudly recounted how the Party successfully guided the nation through complex challenges. He emphasized that the key to these achievements lies in a deep understanding of Marxist scientific theory intertwined with China’s unique historical context.
In line with this perspective, Xi has cultivated a strong appreciation for the essentials of Chinese historical culture, effectively bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary realities. He advocates for a synergistic approach that merges traditional values with modern socialist principles to foster a vibrant cultural environment.
On July 27, UNESCO recognized Beijing’s central axis as a World Heritage Site. Following this recognition, Xi stressed that this historic milestone should inspire efforts to enhance the comprehensive protection of both cultural and natural heritage.
As China awakens as a cultural lion, Xi calls for a manifestation of peaceful, friendly, and civilizational engagement with the global community. He underscores the necessity for China to broaden its international perspective while addressing universal human concerns and contributing to collective solutions.
Ultimately, Xi’s Cultural Thought represents a powerful blend of historical legacy and forward-thinking ideals, providing strong guidance as China navigates internal challenges and external relations while continuing to uphold its rich heritage. Under his leadership, the nation is set to embark on significant cultural missions, furthering the strength and rejuvenation of the country.
