Xi bids New Year greetings to non-Communist parties, people without party affiliation

Chinese President Xi Jinping (3rd R, rear), also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Yu Zhengsheng (2nd R rear), chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli (4th R, rear) attend a gathering with people from non-Communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and those without party affiliation in Beijing, capital of China, Jan 22, 2017. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping Sunday attended a gathering in Beijing and extended Lunar New Year greetings to people from non-Communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and those without party affiliation.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, called on non-Communist parties and personnel to uphold the leadership of the CPC and give suggestions for CPC governance.

Senior leaders Yu Zhengsheng and Zhang Gaoli also attended the event.

After listening to a speech by a representative of non-Communist parties, Xi expressed appreciation for the CPC's united front work and contributions made by non-Communist parties last year.

He also stressed the importance of consensus and joint efforts among the CPC and the non-Communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and those without party affiliation.

Xi expressed hope that non-Communist parties and personnel would support creating a good environment for the 19th National Congress of the CPC, which is scheduled for this year, and pool wisdom and strength for the implementation of the CPC Central Committee's decisions.

He called on relevant people to give suggestions for the country's reform and development and ensure stability, as well as those that related to public concerns.

He further noted the importance of the proper selection of personnel and officials in non-Communist parties.

He said that CPC committees at all levels should support non-Communist parties and people without party affiliation in carrying out their duties.

Moreover, he said the ruling party should be open-minded in following others' good suggestions, and it was an important duty for non-Communist parties to let voices from across spectrum, including criticism, be heard by the ruling party and to give their advice truthfully.