问答题 Remarks by Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on the Open Day for University Students to Mark the May Fourth Youth Day
3 May 2009
Dear Students and Friends,
As the May Fourth Youth Day approaches, the Foreign Ministry is holding this open day exclusive for university students. Let me give you a warm welcome on behalf of the ministry. Your youthful energy and warmth have filled this place with springtime vigor and vitality. Let me also thank the Peking University chorus for your passionate and inspiring performance.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the May Fourth Movement. The essential spirit of the Movement is patriotism. Ninety years ago when our country and nation were at a critical juncture, young people in China came to the fore and spearheaded an anti-imperialist and anti-feudal movement on a spectacular scale. This became the prelude to China's New Democratic Revolution. Almost a century has passed. Generations of patriotic young people, inspired by the spirit of the May Fourth Movement and striving for their ideals, have devoted their youth and energy to the independence of our nation, well-being of our people and prosperity of our country. China has been turned from a poor, closed and backward nation into a prosperous, open and ever advancing one. It is right on the path of socialism with Chinese features. We, the Chinese people are immensely proud of what we have achieved.
Over the past 90 years, China has weathered storms in its foreign relations. Once we ceded territories and paid reparations to foreign powers. Now we have Hong Kong and Macao back. Once we were ravaged by wars and turmoil. Now we are a staunch force for world peace. Once we suffered chronic poverty and declining national strength. Now we are vigorously promoting common development of mankind. We have come a long way. Since the founding of new China, especially over the past 30 years of reform and opening-up, China's relations with the world have undergone historic changes. China's diplomacy has entered a new era. Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee and with the firm support of our people, we have seized opportunities and tackled challenges creatively and vigorously in response to changed circumstances. We have made impressive achievements. China has gained a markedly higher standing and growing influence in the world. Our friendship and cooperation with countries around the globe are growing across the board. China is active on the world stage as an important, positive force with a more confident and open image. No matter what changes may take place in the world, an unfailing belief always guides China's diplomacy—the interests of our country and people are above anything else. And a spirit always inspires Chinese diplomats—patriotism of the persevering Chinese nation.
Dear Students and Friends,
A sea change has taken place over the past 90 years. What remains unchanged is the Chinese youth's historical responsibility and sense of mission for our country and nation. The youth of today are better educated, with a broader global vision, ardent patriotic passion, strong ambitions and dedication. The youth are in battles with anti-China and separatist forces, at the forefront of earthquake and other disaster relief operations, and among volunteers for the Beijing Olympic Games. The youth are persistent, selfless, and afraid of no dangers or difficulties. The youth have upheld the interests of our country, defended the dignity of our nation and enhanced China's friendship with other countries. What the youth have done attests to the world that your generation is the pride of our times, our country and our people.
Like the People's Republic of China, the Foreign Ministry will soon be 60 years old. Yet our ministry is still young, as young people below 35 years of age make up half of our staff. They are bold, enterprising, hard-working, ready to take on responsibilities, and devoted to work. They add brilliance to China's diplomacy with their youth, wisdom and hard work. They are best represented by young diplomats here who have just won the title of "outstanding youth of the ministry". China's diplomacy has a big role to play in the 21st century. It serves our country and people. It is a grand undertaking in which one may witness, be a part of, and make history. The Foreign Ministry needs more outstanding young people and provides aspirant young people with a larger stage to serve the country. Join us and work for our country.
"If the youth are wise, the country will be wise. If the youth are wealthy, the country will be wealthy. If the youth are strong, the country will be strong." Let us carry on the glorious tradition of the May Fourth Movement and promote patriotism. Let us work together for the great renaissance of our Chinese nation.
Dear Students and Friends,
Wish you a happy May Fourth Youth Day.
Wish you good academic performance and a promising future.
Thank you!