The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) held a grand gathering on Monday in the Great Hall of People, to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Chen Yun, a late proletarian revolutionary and founder of China's socialist economy.

Hu Jintao, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, delivered a keynote speech at the gathering.

He recalled Chen's contributions to achieving national independence, people's liberation and national prosperity in different historical periods.

He spoke highly of Chen's courage, resource and political wisdom he showed in more than 70 years as a revolutionary, as well as Chen's brilliant thoughts and virtues.

Hu said Chen devoted his whole life to the establishment and consolidation of China's socialist system, as well as the initiation and development of China's reform, opening up and modernization drive.

"Comrade Chen enjoyed lofty prestige both at home and abroad, and was deeply respected and loved by all the Chinese people. His magnificent achievements will be forever remembered and his thoughts and virtues will encourage us to march forward," said Hu.

The general secretary pointed out that China's reform and development have entered a decisive period. All the Chinese people are concentrating on building a moderately prosperous society in an all-round way. "The prospects of the cause of the CPC and the Chinese people are bright, but we should soberly recognize that our road forward will be full of hardships, as the international situation is undergoing profound changes and the domestic tasks of reform and development are strenuous."

"We should grasp the current opportunity of strategic importance, effectively handle all risks and challenges on our way forward and unswervingly push forward the socialist cause with Chinese characteristics," he said.

Hu stressed that the party "should vigorously improve its governing capability and maintain its advanced nature. It should strive to be more innovative, cohesive and full of combat competence, so that the CPC can always lead the Chinese people of all nationalities in advancing reform, opening up and the socialist modernization drive."

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, presided over the grand gathering.

Chen, a native of Shanghai, was a veteran member of the CPC and had long held important leading positions in its Central Committee. He died in 1995 in Beijing, at the age of 90.

(Xinhua News Agency June 14, 2005)