Solemn ceremony: Xi straightening the red ribbons on the flower baskets in Tian’anmen Square in Beijing. — Xinhua
BEIJING: President Xi Jinping led a solemn tribute to the nation’s heroes in the capital as China marked its Martyrs Day, honouring heroes who dedicated their lives to the liberation of the people and the nation’s development.
Xi and other leaders attended the event held at the Monument to the People’s Heroes in Tian’anmen Square on Friday.
The ceremony began at 10am with all participants singing the national anthem, followed by a silent tribute to all of China’s fallen heroes and a chorus of the Song of Chinese Young Pioneers by students.
Nine flower baskets stood before the crowd.
After honour guards laid the baskets in front of the monument, Xi straightened the red ribbons on the baskets and led senior officials in a walk around the monument in honour of those who gave their lives.
They were joined later by representatives from various sectors of society.
In 2014, the Standing Committee of the NPC, China’s top legislature, approved Sept 30 – one day before National Day – as Martyrs Day to commemorate those who lost their lives fighting for national causes. — China Daily/ANN
