The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, has decided to set some convicts free as part of the activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1937-45).

The move is in line with China's constitutional amnesty system and will make the occasion more celebratory for some. Granting special amnesty to convicts is a universal practice, which usually is done before major national festivals and commemorative occasions or after significant political changes in a country. Announced before the commemoration of the victory in the fight against fascism, the NPC Standing Committee decision is aimed at reminding people that they should respect history, oppose war, cherish peace and make efforts to prevent a repeat of the tragedy of seven decades ago.

After 30-plus years of reform and opening-up, China has made huge economic and social achievements, which in turn have considerably increased its national strength and improved people's lives. In this sense, the amnesty granted to some convicts shows China is confident of its development path, theory and system thanks to the Party's ruling capability. Also, the amnesty granted to convicts will boost people's morale.