As the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve, the Chinese mainland's leader Xi Jinping delivered an inspiring New Year address from his office in Beijing, capturing the hearts of millions.
Describing 2024 as an \"extraordinary year,\" Xi highlighted the nation's significant strides towards Chinese modernization. He vowed to bring more smiles to the people and work towards a better future for the world in the year ahead.
'Real Benefits' to the People 💡
\"Your concerns are always on my mind,\" Xi assured, addressing issues close to the people's hearts like jobs, incomes, education, and healthcare.
Throughout 2024, Xi traveled across the Chinese mainland, engaging with ordinary folks to learn about their lives firsthand—from incomes and housing to children's education and elder care.
In a testament to putting people first, the Ministry of Finance reported that 70% of government spending in 2024 was dedicated to the people's well-being.
Some standout initiatives included the renovation of over 50,000 old urban residential communities and a massive consumer goods trade-in program that benefited tens of millions. Plus, reduced mortgage interest rates brought relief to 50 million households—around 150 million people!
By the end of September 2024, the average disposable income per person reached 30,941 yuan (about $4,178), marking a 5.2% increase from the previous year. 📈
Addressing the challenges of an aging population—with over 20% of citizens aged above 60—the government allocated 300 million yuan to support elderly meal programs and added 358,000 in-home care beds.
\"Of all the jobs ahead, ensuring a happy life for our people is the most important,\" Xi emphasized.
'A Responsible Global Player' 🌍
\"In a world of change and turmoil, the Chinese mainland is actively promoting global governance reform and strengthening solidarity among the Global South,\" Xi stated.
In 2024, the Chinese mainland's commitment to openness and cooperation offered vast opportunities for other nations on their modernization journeys.
The number of major trading partners grew from over 140 to more than 150 countries and regions. Travelers from 54 countries now enjoy 240-hour visa-free transit stays, making cultural exchanges even more vibrant. ✈️
Engagements with the Global South were a highlight. During the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, Xi introduced eight measures to bolster cooperation, spanning from economic development to green initiatives.
Collaborations deepened with Arab states, Latin American and Caribbean countries, and Pacific island nations, focusing on innovation, finance, energy, and cultural exchanges.
The Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation marked a new era, with the announcement of an all-weather China-Africa community. The Chinese mainland pledged 10 partnership actions over the next three years to advance modernization alongside African nations.
Amid global tensions, the Chinese mainland stood out by championing peaceful solutions—from aiding ceasefire resolutions in Gaza to promoting unity among Global South countries on pressing issues.
\"We will work with all countries to foster friendship, enhance cultural exchanges, and build a community with a shared future for mankind,\" Xi pledged.
As 2025 unfolds, the promise of more smiles and a brighter future resonates not just within the Chinese mainland but across the globe. Here's to a year of hope, unity, and shared progress! 🎉
Reference(s):
Ringing in 2025, China vows to bring more smiles to its people
cgtn.com
