The 1911 Revolution was a positive response from China, a result of the country's pioneers applying lessons learned from the outside world. It was also a move from an agricultural society to an industrial society, from autocracy to democracy, and from the emperor's courtyard to the home of ordinary people.

But it failed to establish a modern system to eliminate long-standing malpractices and push forward the country's development. China was mired in civil wars and foreign invasions in the first half of the 20th century before the mantle of leadership was handed over to the CPC.

Looking to the future, the Chinese people have realized they cannot rest on their achievements. They need to be vigilant against unexpected changes and learn from advanced civilizations with open minds. They must exert effort for domestic economic construction rather than seeking world hegemony.

The rejuvenation of the Chinese nation will be a long and difficult process, and development still deserves to be a top priority.

Although China has become the world's second largest economy, it remains a developing country, and its GDP per capita ranks only about 100th in the world. Poverty and backwardness still can bee seen in many parts of the country.

And the ancient feudal tradition, including the rule of man in certain areas, is still one of the major obstacles hindering China from realizing its modernization goal.

During his speech entitled "The Path to China's Future" at Britain's renowned Royal Society in June, Premier Wen Jiabao said, "China was long under the influence of feudalism. After the founding of New China, the country went through the turmoil of the decade-long Cultural Revolution. Since China opened itself, some new developments and problems have occurred."

Promoting democracy, improving the legal system and strengthening effective oversight of power remains a long and arduous task for the nation.

To commemorate the 1911 Revolution, with a keen sense of responsibility and democracy, people will spur social progress. The more the people participate in social management and public affairs, the greater the momentum there will be to sustain social progress.

As for China's development, worldwide observers need to take a more patient and milder attitude.

It is better to bear in mind that China feared no difficulties in the history and is pushing forward the reform and opening up with greater resolve.

China has conformed with the general situation of the world and the universal values of humanity and is on its way to becoming a modern and progressive country that seeks common development and interests with other countries.

One hundred years after the revolution, China is again at a crucial point. The world is undergoing fundamental changes, while scientific and technological revolution and economic globalization are progressing every day. With the financial crisis and other problems, the future of the world is uncertain.

Only by swimming with the tide of the times can China achieve complete rejuvenation and make greater contributions to humanity.