Hu Jintao called on the 73 million members of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people on Monday to hold high the "great banner of socialism with Chinese Characteristics" in their strive for building "a moderately prosperous society in all aspects."

Hu made the call in a keynote speech at the 17th CPC National Congress Monday on behalf of the 16th CPC Central Committee.

The theme of the congress is "to hold high the great banner of socialism with Chinese characteristics, follow the guidance of Deng Xiaoping Theory and the important thought of Three Represents, thoroughly apply the Scientific Outlook on Development, continue to emancipate the mind, persist in reform and opening up, pursue development in a scientific way, promote social harmony, and strive for new victories in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects," Hu said.

(Xinhua News Agency October 15, 2007)