It is the Chinese people's longing for better lives that has prompted the Communist Party of China to blaze the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics, through which the nation not only continues to pursue its rejuvenation, but also further contributes to the well-being of the world.

While those who bear ill-will toward China have chosen to focus on the military hardware in the parade and tried to portray it as having aggressive intentions, Xi, also chairman of the Central Military Commission, reminded those watching that the nature, purpose and character of the People's Liberation Army and People's Armed Police Force is to resolutely safeguard China's sovereignty, security and development interests, and firmly uphold world peace.

What the event displayed is not aggressive intentions, but the pride China takes in its accomplishments and its awareness that unity is strength.

By coming together at this moment, wherever they might be, the Chinese people were able to reflect on what has been achieved over the past 70 years and look forward to the bright future of national rejuvenation.