Chinese President stresses values of retired officials  

习近平：老同志对坚决惩治腐败是坚定支持的

Senior Chinese leaders Xi Jinping, Liu Yunshan, Zhang Gaoli and others meet with representatives of distinguished veteran cadre individuals and groups at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 26, 2014. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday stressed the value of veteran officials, calling them valuable assets for both the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the country.

Xi made the remark during a national conference to honor retired officials and organizations.

Surveys conducted by the CPC Central Committee Organization Department over the past two years show that retired officials generally spoke highly of the policies adopted by the CPC leadership, and firmly supported the CPC's leadership and its ongoing antigraft drive, Xi said.

This shows veterans support the Party and are devoted to its undertakings, the president said.

Xi said more publicity highlighting the achievements of retired officials was needed to create a sound social environment built on a foundation of respect, care and learning from the older generation.

He encouraged retired officials to make use of their experience and prestige to promote "core socialist values."

Efforts should be made to "organize and guide them to tell the stories of China, promote the Chinese spirit, and spread voices of China", the president said.

Xi said he hoped veteran cadres retained their intrinsic political qualities and continued to promote the Party's traditions, and contributed to the country's rejuvenation.

Senior Chinese leaders Liu Yunshan and Zhang Gaoli were also present at the meeting.

In total, 450 retired officials and 150 organizations were honored at Wednesday's conference.