International: A prominent Chinese scholar has said that the Communist Party of China (CPC) differs fundamentally from Western political parties in both its nature and purpose. Speaking ahead of the Party`s 105th anniversary, he argued that the CPC`s longevity and vitality stem from its steadfast commitment to its founding mission and its dedication to serving the interests of the overwhelming majority of the Chinese people.

Li Chunlu, former Executive Vice President of the Party School of the CPC Central Committee, outlined the Party`s defining characteristics during an episode of The Power of Ideas, a special lecture series produced by China Global Television Network (CGTN). The programme explores the ideas and philosophies shaping China`s development and its approach to global governance.

In the lecture, broadcast on Tuesday, one day before the CPC`s 105th founding anniversary, Li examined the Party`s historical origins and explained what he described as its distinctive political identity.

According to Li, Western political parties primarily function as electoral organizations competing for political power, whereas the CPC was established on an entirely different foundation.

"The CPC emerged through the integration of Marxism-Leninism with China`s workers` movement during the country`s pursuit of national rejuvenation," Li said. "Historically, the Chinese understanding of a `party` has never been limited to a small group formed to pursue political interests or compete for power. Founded on the principles of The Communist Manifesto, the CPC was created to advance the well-being of the vast majority of the people. Its founding principles are also deeply aligned with the values of China`s outstanding traditional culture. Although the English translation uses the word `party,` its underlying meaning is fundamentally different."

Li stressed that preserving the Party`s long-term strength and public credibility requires a firm commitment to resisting the temptations of power and privilege among its members.

"The original aspiration and founding mission of the Communist Party of China are to secure the happiness of the Chinese people and achieve the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," he said. "At the same time, CPC members understand that the road ahead is filled with risks and challenges. As the governing party, it is essential to guard against the corrosive effects of power and personal gain. As General Secretary Xi Jinping has emphasized, only by remaining true to its founding mission and pressing forward with unwavering determination can the Communist Party of China remain forever youthful and full of vitality."

Source: China Central Television (CCTV).