Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, said in the speech that China must promote socialist democracy through the improvement of the system of people's congresses.

 

While hailing the system of people's congresses as China's fundamental political system, Xi said, "In new situations, we should hold high the banner of people's democracy, while adhering to and improving the system of people's congresses as required by the times."

 

"We should keep to the socialist path of political development with Chinese characteristics and continue to promote socialist democracy," he said.

 

China's socialist political system has proved itself feasible, efficient and has vitality because it was developed in the country's social soil, Xi said, adding that any system should be designed and developed according to a country's actual conditions and situations.

 

The founding anniversary of the NPC falls on Sept. 15. Xi delivered the speech at a conference on Sept. 5, 2014, to mark the NPC's 60th anniversary.