People's Daily, the leading newspaper of the Communist Party of China, publishes a commentator's article today calling on the entire nation to struggle hard with full confidence and in solidarity.

The article says that 2000 is the turn of a new millennium, and the projected goals are magnificent and tasks ahead will be arduous. Therefore, people should firmly believe that the nation will reach its goals this year, as well as in 2010, and half a century later, when the country will have become prosperous and strong.

"We have already confirmed our road, concentrated our strength, and laid down a firm groundwork," the paper says.

It also points out that certain difficulties and problems exist, and to deal with them the nation must use its achievements and strength to inspire the people, and believe these problems will be solved through further reform and economic development.

The article points out that by combining confidence with solidarity, which are spiritual and practical powers, the strength of the great masses of the people will come together.

The paper continues that consideration should be given to the removal of contradictions among the people and the strengthening of ethnic unity, for only in this way can people's creativity and initiative be protected and utilized.

The article urges leading officials and leading groups at all levels to set an example by doing a good job and maintaining solidarity, while avoiding conflicts and quarrels among themselves.

It notes that on the eve of the new millennium, history made clear to all the truth that victory always belongs to justice and the people. As the Party is working for the people's interest, it can overcome any difficulty, the article concludes.