In the face of challenges from COVID-19, frequent summer floods and turbulence in economic performance, the CPC Central Committee has led the whole of the Party, military and nation to rise against challenges and secure an extraordinary performance in an extraordinary year.

Facts have again proved the decisive role of the Party Central Committee's power of judgment, decision-making and action and the key importance of leadership at major, historic junctures and in the face of major challenges, they said.

With 2021 marking the start of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), the start of a new journey in the comprehensive building of a modern socialist nation and the Party's 100th anniversary, bureau members must focus on the theme of high-quality development, implement a new development philosophy and foster a new development paradigm.

In his remarks, Xi underlined adherence to the right political direction as the most important element in the Party's governance, saying that it is important to always maintain the Party's political character and always follow the direction of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

In improving political judgment, it is important to put strong emphasis on national political security and the interests of the people, he said.

He called on members of the bureau to excel in thinking about fundamental and long-term issues that are of overall importance and maintain a sober mind and insight over key issues and procedures.

Officials, especially senior officials, must conduct in-depth learning and garner a thorough understanding of the CPC Central Committee's instructions, he said.

Xi also urged officials, especially senior ones, to respond resolutely to what the Central Committee advocates, carry out its decisions and follow its prohibitions.

It is important for members of the bureau to exercise strict self-discipline on a regular basis, Xi said, adding that they must cherish their integrity in the same way they cherish their own lives and remain stainless in personal conduct.