Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, conferred the July 1 Medal, the Party's highest honor, on model CPC members on Wednesday at a grand gathering marking the Party's 105th founding anniversary at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

The eight recipients of the medal are outstanding representatives of Party members from various sectors, who uphold firm ideals and beliefs, remain loyal to the Party, and dedicate themselves to the Party, the country and the people, according to the decision of the CPC Central Committee on awarding the July 1 Medal.

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The decision was read out at the gathering by Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee.

The recipients put people first, always think and work together with the people, and tirelessly strive for the interests of the people, the decision said.

They forge ahead with a sense of mission and responsibility, establish and practice a correct understanding of governance performance, work diligently and tackle challenges in ordinary positions, and strive to create achievements that live up to the expectations of the Party, the people and the times, the decision noted. They follow fine work conduct and maintain political integrity and honesty, winning widespread praise from the entire Party and society, it added.

The decision called on all Party members to follow their example and work in solidarity to contribute to the building of a modern socialist country in all respects and to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

The medal was first conferred in 2021, which marked the centenary of the founding of the CPC. The award is granted every five years to celebrate the Party's major anniversaries.

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Beyond individual recognition, the medal, which honors role models from all walks of life, carries wider social value.

Designed with simplicity and solemnity as its core concept, the medal, with red, gold and white as its main colors, features key elements such as the Party emblem and the five-pointed star.

Outstanding Party members, Party workers and primary-level Party organizations from across the country were also honored at Wednesday's gathering.

Contact the writers at caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn