BEIJING - Xi Jinping on Wednesday called for continued and greater efforts to ensure that the Communist Party of China (CPC) has its say in the realm of ideology.

We must uphold Marxism, firm up and further build the ideal of Communism and a shared ideal of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and nurture and practice core socialist values, Xi said at the opening of the 19th CPC National Congress.

He said cultural confidence represents a fundamental and profound force that sustains the development of a country and a nation.

"We should cherish our cultural roots, draw on other cultures, and be forward-thinking. We should do more to foster a Chinese spirit, Chinese values, and Chinese strength to provide a source of cultural and moral guidance for our people," Xi said.