"No force can ever shake the status of China, or stop the Chinese people and nation from marching forward," Xi said.

But, although the country will not be cowed by threats or subdued by pressure, he assured the world that China remains committed to its path of peaceful development. While the nation will resolutely defend its hard-won independence and territorial integrity, the Chinese people cherish peace and will strive amicably to work with the people of other countries in pursuit not only of the nation's overdue rejuvenation but also a community with a shared future for all mankind.

Having suffered repeatedly from foreign bullying, the Chinese people have ingrained in their minds that invading, enslaving and colonizing other peoples, for whatever reasons and in whatever forms, are evil acts. And, despite the scaremongering of some about China's military parade, China remains committed to a new type of international relations based on equality and common prosperity. It does not pursue hegemony or seek expansion. It will never be subordinate to others, but neither will it coerce others into submission.

Having become a strong, comprehensive national power, it is in a better position than ever before to make greater contributions to humankind. Not only by shouldering more responsibility to help other developing countries improve their people's livelihoods. But also by actively exploring and applying a Chinese approach to upholding multilateralism, international peace and stability, and common development.

Over the past 70 years, China has integrated itself into the global community and made ever greater contributions to safeguarding world peace and boosting global prosperity through its development, and it will continue to do so.