Chinese President Hu Jintao on Thursday called on the Chinese people to unite more closely to build a "rich, strong, democratic, civilized, harmonious and modernized socialist country."

History reveals that China's development has never been a plain sailing, Hu said, adding, "But the people who have their destiny in their own hands and are united will overcome all difficulties and obstacles and continuously make great historic achievements."

Looking into the future, China has "infinitely bright prospects," he told a rally celebrating the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

He called on the whole Party, the armed forces and people of all ethnic groups to unite more closely and make unremitting efforts for the grandiose goal of building a rich, strong, democratic, civilized, harmonious and modernized socialist country, realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and making new contributions to mankind.

(Xinhua News Agency October 1, 2009)