China marks 40th anniversary of reform and opening-up

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, and other Chinese leaders applaud after presenting the medals for prize winners of reform pioneers during a grand gathering to celebrate the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening-up at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 18, 2018. Xi made an important speech at the gathering. (Xinhua/Yan Yan)