BEIJING -- President Xi Jinping on Tuesday underscored the importance of carrying on the spirit of arduous struggle by the Chinese youth.

There will definitely be daunting challenges, difficulties and obstacles in the new journey toward the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, Xi said, adding that the spirit of arduous struggle is especially needed during the process.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a gathering marking the centenary of the May Fourth Movement.

The Chinese youth should always maintain their fine tradition of forging ahead, Xi said.