MOST recently, the Communist Party of China (CPC) celebrated its 105th anniversary and during its long journey the Chinese President Xi Jinping “Thought on Party Building” and component of his thought on “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era” has been the “magnetic”, “guiding”, “inspirational” and “driving” force gearing the Party and the Chinese nation towards greater “politicization” and “democratization”, prosperity, productivity, participation and peaceful conflict resolution. Thus, it acts like a “divine” document of development, dialogue, discipline and national determination fighting against all odds to achieve the desired goals.
It intentionally introduced major original contributions to the development of the “Marxist theory of Party” building showing one of the highest levels of socio-political “adaptability” having far-reaching guiding significance for strengthening the Party and the country. Hence, it originates from the scientific theory of Marxism and rooted in fine traditional Chinese culture by “institutionalizing” spirit of self-governance, self-cultivation and self-strengthening in the CPC. Ultimately, it successfully opened new “horizons” in Marxist theory of Party building, highlighting a “people-centered” approach and a scientific mindset for the CPC to fulfill its historical mission.
Actually, it provides “profound” answers to the major theoretical and practical questions concerning Party building in the new era, enriching and advancing the Marxist theory of Party building through a series of original contributions. So, it has been an “ideal” combination of resolution and evolution transforming the Party and the people alike. Undoubtedly, the CPC always seeks happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation, while also pursuing human progress and the common good of the world.
The Party stands at the forefront of the development of human political civilization, providing an important public intellectual resource for political party building around the world, especially for political parties in the Global South. It guides every ruling party to maintain “vitality”, relevance, vibrancy, positive energy and strengthen good governance capacity and preserve public trust over the long term. It emphasizes the Party’s ability to continuously improve itself through political commitment, organizational discipline, ideological cohesion, cadre development, anti-corruption efforts and governance based on institutions and rules. It recognizes that a ruling party cannot effectively reform society unless it is willing to reform itself.
Obviously, one of the CPC’s most notable achievements has been guiding China through successive stages of development guided by clear long-term objectives. Since it has been holistic, comprehensive and futuristic in its orientations its goals extend beyond material prosperity. It encompasses technological innovation, industrial upgrading, cultural confidence, ecological sustainability, stronger governance and enhanced national strength. In essence, China’s vision of modernization seeks comprehensive national development rather than economic growth alone.
A defining feature of this approach is its long-term strategic perspective, linking present actions with future national goals to ensure continuity and sustained development. Xi Jinping Thought reflects intrinsic connections among Party self-governance, Party strengthening and national rejuvenation. Articulated through the “Fourteen Upholds” and a series of original concepts and theoretical insights, it has enriched Marxist theory on Party building and carries practical significance for strengthening the Party and the country. Guided by this thought, the CPC seeks to advance from the “world’s largest political party” towards becoming the “world’s most powerful political party.”
Surely, it has unified thinking, firm resolve, coordinated action and strong fighting strength which will vigorously advance the great new project of Party building in the new era, thereby providing a strong political guarantee for the noble cause of building a powerful nation and achieving national rejuvenation. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, the CPC Central Committee, with comrade Xi Jinping at its core, has put forward new concepts, new thinking and new strategies that will serve as the fundamental guidelines for strengthening Party building in the new era.
These concepts are expressed through the “Fourteen Upholds”, encompassing Party leadership, a people-centred approach, comprehensive reform, innovation, people’s democratic participation, rule of law, socialist values, improved livelihoods, harmony with nature, holistic national security, Party leadership over the military, “One Country, Two Systems”, a community with a shared future for humanity, and rigorous self-reform. Together, they provide a comprehensive framework for Party governance, national development and social progress. They reflect the CPC’s commitment to improving people’s well-being, strengthening national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and pursuing a prosperous, secure and modern China.
It is the codification of complete transparency, accountability and openness for securing the doctrine of zero tolerance against corruption hence, promotes a organizational system that is cohesive across different levels through building a clear ‘chain of responsibility ‘ where party committees carry the main responsibility, the Party Secretary is the first responsible person and the leadership team at every level hold ‘One position, two responsibilities’. It means that the leading official is accountable for both daily work and Party building which is commendable. China is creating outstanding image almost in every sector in the world stage under the pragmatic and visionary leadership of the CPC.
In summary, the writer submits that every nation should adapt proven development principles to its own history, cultural heritage, constitutional order and socioeconomic landscape. Definitely, the ‘Xi Jinping Thought on Party Building’ can help Pakistan’s various political parties to improve good governance by emphasizing anti-corruption frameworks, firm internal discipline, merit-based workers training and a people-centered approach. The writer hopes that by adopting these structured concepts would strengthen institutional accountability and transparency promoting people’s welfare, reducing gaps in public trust and addressing societal concerns proactively in the world.
—The writer is President, the Centre for Knowledge and Public Policy, Regional Expert: China, CPEC, BRI & World Affairs.
