People’s Republic of China marks 69th anniversary with somber ceremony

World Today

CHINA-NATIONAL-DAYPeople pose for a picture as they visit Tiananmen Square during National Day in Beijing on October 1, 2018. (AFP PHOTO / Fred DUFOUR)

Oct. 1 marked the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. More than 145,000 people from across the country gathered in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square at daybreak to watch the raising of the national flag.

CGTN’s Zheng Yibing reports.

People’s Liberation Army Guards of Honor escorted the national flag into Tiananmen Square, in the heart of Beijing. As the military band played the national anthem, the flag rose alongside the sun. Over 10,000 white doves were released, as symbols of peace.

A similar ceremony is held each day in the square, but on National Day, thousands travel to witness the spectacle. They come long before midnight, despite the autumn chill, to get a closer look.

After the ceremony, many head to the Monument to the People’s Heroes, paying tribute to those who perished fighting for the country’s independence and bringing well wishes for China.

CHINA-NATIONAL-DAY

A girl stands in Tiananmen Square during National Day in Beijing on October 1, 2018. (AFP PHOTO / Fred DUFOUR)

“I wish that China will get better and better,” one woman said. “People can live an even happier life, and college graduates can have more opportunities for good jobs.”

“I wish for the elderly can get easier access to healthcare, and children can have better education,” according to another.

For them, the ceremonial event today has brought new strength and hope to work towards a better tomorrow.