China is commemorating the 75th year of Communist Party rule amidst economic challenges and security threats that continue to impact the massive state. The occasion was marked by a flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square, with state-controlled media highlighting China's economic progress and social stability while overlooking issues such as declining birth rates and disruptions in supply chains.
Commemorations were also held in Hong Kong and Macao, former territories that returned to Chinese sovereignty in the late 1990s, symbolizing Beijing's efforts to overcome historical challenges.
China, the world's second-largest economy, has been striving to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A property slump and subsequent economic repercussions have prompted the government to implement measures like lower interest rates and reduced down payment requirements for mortgages to stimulate economic growth.
Party leader Xi Jinping, emphasizing the need for vigilance and unity, warned of potential obstacles ahead but expressed confidence in the Chinese people's ability to overcome challenges.
Internationally, China faces tensions with neighboring countries like Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines over territorial disputes and their relationships with the United States, Beijing's primary rival.
China's military expansion and recent missile tests have raised concerns about potential conflicts, while domestically, Xi Jinping has consolidated power by eliminating term limits and extending his authority over key government and party institutions.
China's political landscape remains tightly controlled by the Communist Party, with limited media freedom and no competitive elections, underscoring the party's dominance over the country's 1.4 billion population.
