What message is the China trying to convey through its elaborate 60th anniversary celebrations? Here Dr Steve Tsang of St Antony's College, Oxford University, gives his interpretation of a selection of images from the parades.

1 We are modern, we are beautiful, and we don't forget who makes us so. We stand united. We march proudly forward to defend steadfastly the Party's leadership. We uphold the red flag and the Leninist heritage carved in stone.

2 There is no forgetting the past. Continuity is what makes China great. I am a modern globetrotting leader who brings you national strength and prosperity. China is rising. But don't forget, I inherit and uphold the legacy of Chairman Mao - in a great big modern Hongqi limousine, not just a Mercedes.

3 Rejoice, we are on track to build a harmonious society - under the leadership of President Hu and the Communist Party. It is modern. It is Chinese. Now, all of you get on the fast track to a harmonious society on the "Harmony" high speed train. Dissent is not harmonious.

4 Isn't our modern air force great? But don't forget to admire the blue sky. The People's Liberation Army has seen to it - and not a bird in sight, until their turn comes when the doves will be released. We can conquer nature - and we have. We should all rejoice and unite under the leadership of the Party.

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