China must carry forward its Communist ideals: Daily

China needs to carry forward its Communist ideals, said a state-run daily which noted that it is "a long-term challenge" for the country to stick to its ideals when Western political ideas are so pervasive in the modern age.

An editorial "China not deluded by Communist ideals" in the Global Times said that "Communism" has become a hot word in the opinion sphere recently. The editorial appeared at a time when President Xi Jinping is visiting the US.

"Some newspapers have published articles that called for working for the long-term goal of Communism. However, a number of intellectuals online have adopted an ironic view toward the doctrine of Communism. Such debates, however, are not unexpected," it said.

The daily said that since China's reform and opening-up, "Communism is no longer a hot slogan in newspapers and on people's lips. But as a noble ideal, it still guides the country's direction. The political concept of the whole of society should be consolidated, or there will be a lack of cohesion".

It noted that China did not experience a developed capitalist society. "It is understandable that some people are attracted by the advantages of capitalism. Marx long-illustrated the prospects of Communism, which shows the broad-mindedness of mankind."

Saying that people were encouraged by Communism, the daily added: "It not only helped establish a new China, but also injected confidence to the Chinese people. China has become the world's second-largest economy."

"The positive energy that Communism brought to our society has far exceeded any bad outcome led by our immature understanding of it."

"We cannot simply talk about Communist ideals and ignore critical issues. At the same time, we should not believe communist ideals are far away because we have bought fake products or encountered corrupt officials," it said.

The editorial went on to say that "China needs to carry forward its Communist ideals, and keep abreast of the times while carrying out its work, and make the beautiful vision for humanity understandable to the general public".

"Communist ideals provide Chinese society with cohesion and morale. However, we have to reconcile ourselves to the fact that it is not an easy job for these ideals to put down roots among the people and help China to compete in the international arena," it said.

"It is a long-term challenge for China to stick to its ideals when Western political ideas are so pervasive in the modern age. It takes much more effort than shouting slogans for political workers at all levels to accomplish their mission."