Xi Jinping taps Hu Yaobang’s legacy to rally Communist Party to ‘crack hard nuts’
On anniversary of Hu’s birth, Chinese president pays tribute to Hu’s idealism and pursuit of reform
He issued the call at a symposium to mark the 110th anniversary of the birth of Hu, a liberal party chief who steered China’s political and economic reform in the aftermath of the Cultural Revolution.
“Comrade Hu Yaobang actively advocated and promoted reform and opening up, and devoted a great deal of effort to promoting socialist modernisation. We should learn from him, [dare to] stand at the forefront of the times and vigorously pursue reform and innovation,” Xi said.
Modern Chinese leaders often weave their policy priorities into commemoration speeches to rally the party and draw inspiration from the political legacy of late leaders.
Xi called Hu “a time-tested loyal communist fighter and a great proletarian revolutionist and statesman”, according to state news agency Xinhua.