Source: CCTV.com

08-01-2007 08:54

Chinese leaders watch the performance marking the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), in Beijing, capital of China, July 30, 2007.(Xinhua Photo)

Beijing's Great Hall of the People played host to a grand performance Monday night to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People's Liberation Army. President Hu Jintao and other high-ranking officials attended.

The Great Hall of People filled with applause and cheers on Monday evening. The performance drew more than 6-thousand spectators. President Hu Jintao and other senior Chinese government dignitaries attended the gala. Before the show, the President offered his greetings to PLA veterans, who have witnessed the accomplishments and changes in the army.

The 80th anniversary show, titled "The Red PLA Flag", is an artistic look at the history of the army.

Starting with the army song of the PLA, performers showcased the army's accomplishments in the past 80 years. The history of the army includes the establishment of the PLA on August 1st 1927, the Long March, the victory of the war against the Japanese aggressors and the establishment of People's Republic of China. It also displayed a powerful and civilized force in China today.

Other high-ranking officials attended, including Top legislator Wu Bangguo, Premier Wen Jiabao, CPPCC Chairman Jia Qinglin, and Zeng Qinghong, Wu Guanzheng, Li Changchun and Luo gan, all members of the standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central committee.

Spectators from the army say the show gave them confidence in the future of the PLA and the country to realize integration and reunification of the motherland and safeguard China's sovereignty.