China does produce a large number of TV shows, movies and publications, but it is far from realizing its full cultural potential to help the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. In contrast, the Republic of Korea, despite its comparatively small size and population, has produced several TV series - such as Winter Sonata - that have presented a new image of the country to the global audience. And not a single Chinese pop song has gained as much international popularity as the "Gangnam Style".

Art comes from life but goes beyond it. The weakness of present day Chinese literature and arts could be attributed to consumerism and money worship. These trends prevent artists from reaching deep into society to look for ideas, materials and vivid details for their works, which Xi said is the most important part of a creative work.

Of course, writers and artists need a more favorable environment to create masterpieces. Accordingly, the Party acknowledges the principle of diversity and wants "all flowers to bloom together" and to "let all schools of thought contend for attention". Mao used these phrases in the 1950s to describe the flourishing of culture and they should be realized now.

Xi promised to promote "democracy in academic and artistic circles" and create a "constructive and easy environment". He also urged Party departments to respect the creativity of artists, and grant them full trust and support.

Economic power alone cannot make a country great. And since China is seeking to rejuvenate its glorious past, it is time for Chinese culture, including literature and arts, to rise up to the task.

Xinhua News Agency

(China Daily 10/18/2014 page5)