In the heart of Zunyi, a city nestled in southwest China’s Guizhou Province, stands a humble two-story building. Amid the hustle and bustle of modern life, this quiet structure holds a pivotal chapter of China’s history.
In January 1935, within a modest 27-square-meter room lit by flickering oil lamps, leaders of the Communist Party of China (CPC) gathered for what would become a defining moment—the Zunyi Meeting. Surrounded by the adversities of war and with limited resources, these leaders made critical decisions that would alter the course of the nation’s future.
Adjacent to the building, a towering mulberry tree rises over 10 meters high, silently witnessing decades of change. The tree and the building together symbolize resilience and hope, their images inseparable in the hearts of the Chinese people.
Since opening to the public, the Zunyi Meeting site has welcomed over 100 million visitors from around the world. People come to hear the stories of how the Red Army, against all odds, transformed defeat into victory. These tales of perseverance continue to inspire new generations.
The site’s significance was further highlighted when Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Zunyi in 2015 and 2021. He emphasized the enduring spiritual legacy left by the Red Army in Guizhou Province.
“The distinct features of the Zunyi Meeting, including establishing the correct CPC Central Committee leadership and formulating strategies suited to China’s revolution, still hold great significance today,” Xi said.
Ninety years later, the spirit of the Zunyi Meeting remains deeply relevant. The decisions made in that small room laid the foundation for the CPC’s leadership and strategic direction. This moment marked the Party’s commitment to addressing China’s unique challenges and adapting its strategies accordingly.
In a rapidly changing world, the ideals born from the Zunyi Meeting serve as a reminder to stay committed to truth, embrace innovation, and remain connected with the people. The meeting stands as a testament to the power of determination and strategic thinking in overcoming the most daunting challenges.
Just as the towering mulberry tree continues to thrive beside the historic building, the legacy of the Zunyi Meeting lives on, guiding China toward future achievements.
Reference(s):
Echoes of history: the Zunyi Meeting and its enduring legacy in China
cgtn.com
