Xi Jinping's New Year speech highlights prosperity, unity

On New Year's Eve, Xi JinpingPresident of China, delivered his annual New Year's address from Beijing, reflecting on a transformative 2024 and outlining priorities for the year ahead. Speaking from his office, XI described the past year as extraordinary, marked by significant progress in China's modernization and social development.

XI highlighted economic resilience and growth, with China's GDP expected to exceed 130 trillion yuan.

Cereal production has exceeded 700 million tonnes, ensuring food security for the population. Progress in regional development and urban-rural integration were seen as key milestones.

Significant technological advances have been made, including breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, integrated circuits and quantum communications. For the first time, more than 10 million new energy vehicles were produced in a single year, reflecting the transition to green development.

Address social protection, XI detailed measures implemented to improve living standards. Renovations of more than 50,000 urban residential communities began in 2024, benefiting millions of people. A multibillion-yuan consumer goods exchange program, combined with a reduction in mortgage rates, has helped 50 million households. Nationwide per capita disposable income rose 5.2 percent in the first three quarters, reaching 30,941 yuan.

The government has allocated 300 million yuan for food assistance programs for the elderly, while 358,000 home care beds have been installed to support the aging population, which now accounts for more than 20 percent of citizens aged 60 and over. more. Increased pensions and the expansion of interprovincial medical agreements have also eased the burden on families.

XI reaffirmed that ensuring a happy life for our people remains a central priority. He stressed that addressing public concerns about jobs, health care and education was a vital goal.

On the international scene, XI characterized China as a responsible major country promoting global governance reform and fostering cooperation within the Global South.

China's diplomatic engagements have expanded, with its major trading partners expanding from 140 to more than 150 countries. The introduction of 240-hour transit visa waivers for 54 countries has further facilitated international trade.

At the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China committed to ten partnership actions over three years to advance Africa's modernization. Relations with Latin America, the Pacific Islands and the Arab States have also been strengthened through cooperation frameworks in the areas of innovation, finance and energy.

China has played an active role in peacebuilding efforts, contributing to a United Nations Security Council ceasefire resolution in Gaza and launching the Friends for Peace initiative to resolve the Ukrainian crisis. XI reiterated China's commitment to dialogue and consensus as a means to resolve global conflicts.

The year 2024 marked the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Reflecting on this important milestone, XIwelcomed the progress made since its creation. He described China's modernization as rooted in its 5,000 years of civilization, highlighting reforms introduced at the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party.

China also celebrated its achievements in sports and defense. At the Paris Olympics, Chinese athletes achieved their best performance at the overseas Games. The Navy and Air Force celebrated their 75th anniversary, demonstrating improved capabilities and morale.

XI presented plans for the final year of China's 14th Five-Year Plan. High-quality development will remain a top priority, with emphasis on economic resilience and technological autonomy. The government aims to address the challenges posed by external uncertainties and internal structural transformations.

Social initiatives will be expanded, with promises of improved education, elderly care and employment opportunities. XIreiterated that meeting people's aspirations for a better life is the fundamental mission of the government.

The speech also reaffirmed China's commitment to the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”, ensuring stability in Hong Kong and Macao. In Taiwan, XI highlighted the inseparable bond between the Chinese people and the inevitability of reunification.

Closing his address, XI called for solidarity among nations, calling for cooperation to create a shared future for humanity. He stressed the importance of overcoming estrangements and conflicts in a rapidly changing world.

Dreams and wishes may be distant, but they can be fulfilled through dedicated pursuit, XI declared. He concluded by expressing his hopes for prosperity and harmony, sending New Year greetings to the Chinese people and the whole world.

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