The Chinese people celebrated the National Day of the People's Republic of China with pride and passion Friday as the world's most populous nation has become the second-largest economy after 61 years of development.

China, which sent a man into space in 2003 and has become the third nation on earth with the capabilities of doing so, is set to launch its second lunar probe, Chang'e II, Friday.

In downtown Beijing, more than 150,000 people -- many wearing traditional costumes of different ethnic groups -- from across the country gathered at the Tian'anmen Square, the heart of Beijing, to watch a grand national flag raising ceremony early Friday.

Chinese President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other leaders laid flower baskets at the Monument to the People's Heroes on the square Friday to pay their respects to those who sacrificed for the nation's independence.

In Shanghai, the China National Pavilion Day was celebrated at the World Expo, bringing the global event to a climax. Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo addressed the celebration ceremony.

Many other Chinese cities also organized flag raising functions to mark the National Day Friday, also the first day of the "Golden Week" of the National Day Holiday with millions of people on the move for travels or family reunions.

(Xinhua News Agency October 1, 2010)