Xi's remarks inspire Chinese journalist association

BEIJING -- Journalists from across China have said they were inspired by Chinese President Xi Jinping's remarks on journalism and would endeavor to spread China's voice.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, called on journalists to "strengthen their confidence in the path, theory, system, and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics."

He made the statement in a congratulatory letter to the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA) on its 80th anniversary Wednesday.

"We are lucky to work as journalists in the new era and we will strive to present new aspects in our work," said Zhang Tie, deputy director of the commentary department of the People's Daily, the flagship newspaper of the CPC.

In the letter, Xi said he expected journalists to "maintain a close connection with the people, record the events of the great times, tell China's stories well, spread China's voice, herald the message of victory and raise national morale, for the realization of the Two Centenary Goals and national rejuvenation."

"Xi has repeatedly emphasized that journalists should care for the people," said Hou Kaidi from China Central Television. "We need to focus on the stories of the ordinary people."

"In order to tell stories of the Chinese people, journalists from Chongqing Daily have spent three years reporting on more than 500 people, recording their love for the country and home as well as their endeavor to make a better life," said Jiang Chunyong, deputy editor in chief of the newspaper.

"We will continue to improve media convergence and reach Internet audience and young people through integrated media products," said Qian Tong, executive deputy director of Xinhua All-Media Service.