Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the CPC Central Military Commission (CMC), attended The Road toward Renewal exhibition at the National Museum in Beijing on November 29, alongside the Standing Committee Members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.

Xi called on Party members to stand together on the road to development and help unite the Chinese people for future prosperity and renewal of the nation.

In his keynote speech, Xi described The Road toward Renewal as a retrospective on the Chinese nation, a celebration of its present and a declaration on its future. He said the country has suffered unusual hardship and sacrifice in modern history.

"However, the Chinese people have never given in, have struggled ceaselessly, and have finally taken hold of their own destiny," he emphasized. "It has displayed, in full, a great spirit of patriotism."

Referring to the country's hard-earned rejuvenation Xi said, "We remain on the road of socialism, but with Chinese characteristics."

In addition, Xi cited Li Bay, an ancient Chinese poet, "I will mount a long wind some day and break the heavy waves." It indicates that, after more than 170 years of hard struggle since the Opium War, the nation has achieved bright prospects, is closer than ever to reaching its goal of renewal, and is more confident and capable than ever.

Xi urged Party members to keep in mind that lagging behind leaves one vulnerable to attack and that only development makes a country strong.

"Keep in mind that the path decides the destiny. However difficult it might be to choose the right direction, we have stick to our decision," he said.

"Looking toward the future, bare in mind that turning blueprints into reality takes time and demands effort."

Xi also highlighted individual ideals, pursuits and dreams. "Nowadays, everyone is talking about the 'China Dream'," he said. "In my view, to realize our renewal is the greatest dream this country has ever had."

The 'China Dream' has conglomerated the long-cherished aspiration of several generations, representing the overall interests of the nation and people," he added.

"History tells us that one's future and destiny is closely connected to that of the country and nation," Xi said, noting that well-being relies heavily on national strength and prosperity.

Rejuvenating the Chinese nation is a glorious and difficult cause that calls for effort and practicality instead of empty words, he noted, adding "We, the current generation of Communists, must utilize what has been left to us by our predecessors as a departure point for forging into the future."

Xi pledged to enhance the Party, unite China and do everything in his power to further the goal of national renewal.

In closing, he said, "I believe that when the Communist Party of China marks its 100th anniversary, the goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects will have been achieved."

The Road Toward Renewal exhibition includes five sections: How China was reduced to a semi-feudal and semi-colonial society; how the Chinese people sought to save the country; how the CPC shouldered the task of fighting for national independence and people's liberation; how the CPC built a new China and how the CPC explored a path of socialism with Chinese characteristics. The exhibition showcased the Chinese people's fight against colonialism, especially their march toward national independence, liberation, the country's prosperity and people's well being since 1840. More than 1200 precious objects and over 870 photos were on display.