Reading China through Xi's classic quotes: 大道之行，天下为公

"A just cause should be pursued for the common good." This saying has appeared in several of Chinese President Xi Jinping's speeches over the years. 

In his report to the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in October 2017, Xi used the quote to emphasize the CPC's approach of always putting people first and pursuing common good for all. "The original aspiration and the mission of Chinese Communists is to seek happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation for the Chinese nation. This original aspiration, this mission, is what inspires Chinese Communists to advance," Xi said. Since its founding, the CPC has always adhered to its commitment to serving the public good and exercising power in the interests of the people. While regarding the people's aspirations to live a better life as its own goal, the Party has tirelessly strived toward the great goal of national rejuvenation.

As China has moved closer to the center of the world stage, this saying has also been utilized to explain China's foreign policy and the broad vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity. Xi has reiterated on many occasions that building a community with a shared future for humanity is the way forward for all the world's peoples. Only when all countries pursue the cause of common good, live in harmony and engage in cooperation for mutual benefit will there be sustained prosperity and guaranteed security.

Origins of the classic quote

"A just cause should be pursued for the common good." This saying comes from the classic Confucian text "The Book of Rites," which dates back some 2,000 years.

In the original context, it was followed by the description of Confucius' ideal society of great harmony, where the elderly enjoy happy twilight years; adults with the ability to work are employed; children are educated; and vulnerable groups including widows, orphans, the sick and the disabled are well looked after.

Such a world of great harmony is mirrored in the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity. The Chinese people are ready to work with the people of all other countries to build a global community of shared future and create a brighter tomorrow for all.