Xi calls for new achievements on new Long March

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday called for new achievements on the new Long March as China commemorates the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Red Army's Long March.

"Only by remembering history can we create a brighter future," said Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, when addressing a gathering held in Beijing to mark the anniversary.

"The whole Party, the entire military and the Chinese people of all ethnic groups should rally more closely around the Party Central Committee, vigorously carry forward the great Long March spirit, and forge ahead with sustained efforts to continuously advance the great cause pioneered by revolutionary forerunners and make new achievements on the new Long March," said Xi.

From October 1934 to October 1936, the Red Army marched through more than 10 provinces during the Long March, opening up a new chapter in the Chinese revolution, Xi said.

Under Xi's proposal, all participants stood up and observed a moment of silence for the revolutionary heroes who gave their lives during the Long March and in revolutionary struggles across China.

Around 3,000 people participated in the gathering at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Xi calls for new achievements on new Long March

Quality housewares, furniture, gifts and home decor are taking the spotlight at the just-opened second phase of the ongoing 140th China Import and Export Fair, or Canton Fair, in Guangzhou City, south China's Guangdong Province.

The five-day second phase of the fair opened on Friday, with the expansive exhibition area covering over 515,000 square meters and featuring over 25,000 booths. Around 11,000 companies are participating in the export section, including more than 3,600 high-quality firms showcasing over two million products.

The import section features over 200 companies from 27 countries and regions, showcasing kitchenware and home supplies.

The fair's Phase 2 is marked by "quality home life". Building and Furniture, Housewares, and Gifts and Decorations categories register an exhibition area of over 130,000 square meters respectively, which can fully meet the diversified demands of global buyers seeking exquisite home products.

In this phase, around 170 launch events are expected. A new collection demonstration area has also been set up. The exhibits in this area will change each phase, with around 50 new products making their debut each time.

Second phase of Canton Fair kicks off, highlighting houseware, gifts