On October 4, China celebrated 77 years of the People's Republic of China (PRC) with grand festivities in Tian'anmen Square, Beijing. Over 100,000 people gathered before dawn to witness the national flag-raising ceremony. The national anthem echoed across the square as the five-starred red flag rose into the sky, evoking emotions and patriotism among the crowd. The festive atmosphere was palpable, with children waving national flags, young people sporting national flag stickers, and older visitors taking group photos.
The celebrations were not limited to the capital; streets across the country were adorned with national flags and floral displays, while residential communities featured lanterns and traditional Chinese knots. Gao Feng, a food delivery rider, expressed his inspiration from the flower displays, stating that he believes in building a better future through collective effort. On the eve of the celebrations, Chinese President Xi Jinping and other senior leaders paid tribute to fallen heroes at a Martyrs' Day ceremony.
China also recognized the contributions of 50 foreign experts with the 2026 Chinese Government Friendship Award, acknowledging their role in China's development and international cooperation. This year's celebrations mark a significant milestone in Chinese history, dating back to October 4, 1949, when Mao Zedong declared the birth of the PRC from the Tian'anmen Rostrum. Since then, China has undergone remarkable transformation, rising from a poor country to the world's second-largest economy.
China's GDP surpassed 140 trillion yuan (approximately 19.6 trillion U.S. dollars) by 2025, accounting for about one-sixth of global GDP. The country has made substantial progress in economic growth, translating into higher incomes and longer lives for its citizens. Per capita disposable income increased from 49.7 yuan in 1949 to 43,377 yuan in 2025, while average life expectancy more than doubled from 35 years to 79.25 years.
China has achieved significant milestones in education, social security, and healthcare, establishing the world's largest systems in these areas. The country has also undergone rapid urbanization, with urban residents now outnumbering rural residents. China has emerged as a global manufacturing powerhouse, producing cutting-edge technologies such as new-energy vehicles, industrial robots, and advanced chips.
The 15th Five-Year Plan period, which began in 2026, outlines China's development priorities for the next five years. The plan aims to lay the groundwork for doubling per capita GDP from its 2020 level by 2035, while accelerating breakthroughs in core technologies. It also sets targets for raising average years of schooling and life expectancy, while strengthening China's soft power.
President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of confidence, focus, and steady progress in achieving China's goals. He expressed pride in China's extraordinary achievements and confidence in the prospects of Chinese modernization. The celebrations and reflections on this significant anniversary highlight China's journey so far and its aspirations for the future.
Key points
- China marks 77 years of People's Republic with nationwide celebrations and reflections on progress.
- The country has achieved remarkable transformation since its founding in 1949, rising from a poor country to the world's second-largest economy.
- China outlines its development priorities for the next five years, focusing on doubling per capita GDP, accelerating technological breakthroughs, and strengthening soft power.
