November 25 is the 99th birthday of the noted Chinese literary giant Ba Jin, vice-chairman of the National Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and also chairman of China Writers Association. Entrusted by the CPC Central Committee and Party and state leaders Jiang Zemin, Hu Jintao, Li Ruihuan, Li Lanqing, Jia Qinglin and Zeng Qinghong, Chen Liangyu, politburo member of CCCPC, Party secretary and mayor of Shanghai, went to pay a visit and convey to him congratulations from the Party and state leaders on his 99th birthday at Shanghai Huadong Hospital Sunday afternoon.
A strong atmosphere of birthday celebration was permeating Ba's ward, which was decorated with fresh flowers, colored ribbons and a picture of "longevity" woven by the medical staff. Baskets of flowers with ribbons reading "Congratulations on Mr. Ba Jin's 99th birthday" were standing around, which were presented by the above said leaders
Mr. Chen drew near the bed and bent over saying to revered Ba, "On your 99th birthday, we, entrusted by the Central Committee and Party and state leaders Jiang Zemin, Hu Jintao, Li Ruihuan, Li Lanqing, Jia Qinglin and Zeng Qinghong, came here specially to extend our sincere greetings. Happy birthday to you and wish you a healthy and long life. You are the Chinese literary master and also an intimate friend of the Party. Throughout your life, you have been in pursuit of truth, and held firmly to justice. You advocate sciences, and love ardently the people. You have by your magnificent works and lofty morals influenced and inspired younger generations and numerous readers, making outstanding contributions to the Chinese and even the global literary undertakings, as well as to the peace and development cause of mankind." Mr. Ba Jin nodded slightly with joy to express his thanks.
(People's Daily November 26, 2002)
