Chinese President Xi Jinping led a solemn ceremony honoring national heroes at Tian’anmen Square on September 30. Moreover, the event highlighted the sacrifices of national heroes and their contributions to China’s liberation and development. The ceremony marked Martyrs’ Day, one day before the country’s National Day.
Xi, together with senior leaders of the Communist Party of China and the state, paid homage to the country’s fallen champions. Leaders present included Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng. Citizens from all walks of life also participated to honor these patriotic figures.
At 10 a.m., attendees sang the national anthem, followed by a moment of silence in memory of the national heroes. Nine large flower baskets were placed at the foot of the Monument to the People’s Heroes. Xi and other leaders straightened the ribbons on the baskets and circled the monument to pay respect to the national heroes.
The flower baskets bore inscriptions reading “Eternal Glory to the People’s Heroes.” They represented institutions including the CPC Central Committee, the National People’s Congress Standing Committee, the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, the Central Military Commission, non-Communist parties, veterans, and patriotic organizations. Young pioneers and relatives of martyrs also contributed to the tribute, honoring national heroes.
This year, the ceremony coincided with the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Observers noted that commemorating national heroes strengthens public patriotism and fosters unity across China.
Presiding over the event, Yin Li, member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and secretary of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee, emphasized the importance of remembering national heroes to guide current development. Experts say that such ceremonies reinforce national values and inspire younger generations to uphold the nation’s goals.
In addition, the tribute reflects China’s broader effort to honor the sacrifices of national heroes behind its modernization and development. Analysts predict that these ceremonies will continue to serve as symbolic reminders of the country’s resilience and collective memory.
Finally, Xi’s actions reaffirmed the Party’s dedication to commemorating the nation’s fallen champions and safeguarding their enduring legacy. These patriotic figures continue to inspire China’s future and support its quest for national rejuvenation.
