On New Year’s Eve, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a heartfelt address from his office in Beijing, reflecting on an “extraordinary year” for China and promising to bring more smiles to the people in 2025.
Xi highlighted the significant strides China made in 2024 towards modernization, emphasizing that the well-being of its citizens remains at the forefront of the nation’s goals.
Throughout 2024, Xi traveled across the country, engaging with ordinary people to understand their lives better. From discussing jobs and incomes to learning about healthcare and education, he kept the concerns of everyday citizens close to his heart.
Massive efforts were made to improve living conditions. The government invested heavily in renovating over 50,000 old urban residential communities, launched consumer goods trade-in programs benefiting millions, and lowered mortgage interest rates, aiding around 50 million households.
Recognizing the challenges of an aging population, with over 20% of citizens aged above 60, China allocated substantial funds to support elderly meal programs and increased in-home care facilities.
“Of all the jobs in front of us, the most important is to ensure a happy life for our people,” Xi said, reaffirming his dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all Chinese citizens.
On the global stage, Xi emphasized China’s role as a responsible major country, actively promoting global governance reform and strengthening ties with the Global South.
In 2024, China expanded its major trading partners to more than 150 countries and regions. It also eased travel by offering 240-hour transit visa exemptions to citizens of 54 countries.
China deepened cooperation with nations across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Pacific, introducing eight measures to support Global South cooperation, focusing on areas like youth exchange, economic development, and green initiatives.
China also played a significant role in promoting peace, from pushing for a UN ceasefire resolution in Gaza to launching the “Friends for Peace” group addressing the Ukraine crisis.
“China will work with all countries to promote friendship and cooperation, enhance mutual learning among different cultures, and build a community with a shared future for mankind,” Xi vowed.
As 2025 approaches, Xi’s message resonates with a commitment to not only bring more smiles to the Chinese people but also to contribute positively to the global community.
