Deng Xiaoping blazed a trail for China's development, and the Chinese people should advance along the path, says an editorial to be published by People's Daily on Sunday to commemorate the 100th birthday of the late Chinese leader.

"Deng Xiaoping Theory showed in a systematic way how an economically backward country like China could build a socialist society, " says the article.

"He laid out the "three-steps" timetable for China to achieve modernization and committed himself on this great cause."

As the anniversary approaches, commemorative activities organized by governments at various levels, non-governmental organizations and individuals have unfolded across China.

A bronze statue of Deng was unveiled in Deng's hometown. A photo, dossier and relics exhibition of him was held in Beijing, drawing numerous visitors. TV series, documentaries and publications on the late leader have found a ready market across the country.

Crowned as the "chief architect of China's reform and opening up," Deng is considered a "widely recognized outstanding leader in China", says the editorial.

Not only one of the founding fathers of the People's Republic of China, he also led the country on a fast track toward economic boom.

Over the past decade, the editorial noted that the Communist Party of China with Jiang Zemin at the helm has carried out Deng's theory and led the whole of the Chinese people to build a socialism with Chinese characteristics. Tremendous progress has been made in its reform, opening to the outside world and modernization drive, the article says.

Based on Deng's theory, Jiang Zemin put forward the important thought of "Three Represents" -- meaning that the Communist Party of China must always represent the development of China's advanced productive forces, the orientation of China's advanced culture andthe fundamental interests of the overwhelming majority of the people in China.

The "Three Represents" has inherited, enriched and developed Marxism, Leninism, Mao Zedong Thought and Deng Xiaoping Theory, the editorial says.

"The best way to commemorate Deng is to carry out his idea and adhere to building socialism with Chinese characteristics," the editorial stresses.

In the end, the editorial calls on all the Chinese people to unite and gather around the current Chinese leader Hu Jintao to contribute to China's modernization drive.

Source: Xinhua