Grain output surpassed 700 million tonnes, ensuring food security for the population. Advances in regional development and urban-rural integration were noted as key milestones.
Significant strides were made in technology, including breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, integrated circuits, and quantum communications. For the first time, over 10 million new energy vehicles were produced in a single year, reflecting the shift towards green development.
Addressing social welfare, Xi detailed measures implemented to improve living standards. Renovations of over 50,000 urban residential communities commenced in 2024, benefiting millions. A multi-billion-yuan consumer goods trade-in programme, combined with reduced mortgage rates, aided 50 million households. Nationwide per capita disposable income rose by 5.2% in the first three quarters, reaching 30,941 yuan.
The government allocated 300 million yuan to elderly meal assistance programmes, while 358,000 in-home care beds were installed to support the ageing population, which now comprises over 20% of citizens aged 60 and above. Pension increases and expanded cross-province medical settlement also eased burdens on families.
Xi reaffirmed that “ensuring a happy life for our people” remains a central priority. He emphasised addressing public concerns about jobs, healthcare, and education as vital goals.
On the international stage, Xi characterised China as a “responsible major country” promoting global governance reform and fostering cooperation within the Global South.
China’s diplomatic engagements expanded, with its major trading partners increasing from 140 to over 150 nations. The introduction of 240-hour transit visa exemptions for 54 countries further facilitated international exchanges.
At the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, China committed to ten partnership actions over three years to advance African modernisation. Relations with Latin America, the Pacific Islands, and Arab states were also strengthened through cooperative frameworks in innovation, finance, and energy.
China played an active role in peace-building efforts, contributing to a UN Security Council ceasefire resolution in Gaza and launching the “Friends for Peace” initiative to address the Ukraine crisis. Xi reiterated China’s dedication to dialogue and consensus as a means to resolve global conflicts.
2024 marked the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Reflecting on this milestone, Xipraised the progress achieved since its establishment. He described China’s modernisation as rooted in its 5,000-year civilisation, underscoring reforms introduced at the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party.
China also celebrated its achievements in sports and defence. At the Paris Olympics, Chinese athletes delivered their best performance in overseas Games. The navy and air force marked their 75th anniversaries, showcasing enhanced capabilities and morale.
Xi outlined plans for the final year of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan. High-quality development will remain a top priority, with a focus on economic resilience and technological self-reliance. The government aims to address challenges posed by external uncertainties and domestic structural transformations.
Social undertakings will be expanded, with promises to enhance education, elderly care, and job opportunities. Xireiterated that fulfilling the people’s aspirations for a better life is the government’s fundamental mission.
The address also reaffirmed China’s commitment to the “One Country, Two Systems” principle, ensuring stability in Hong Kong and Macao. On Taiwan, Xi emphasised the inseparable bond among Chinese people and the inevitability of reunification.
Closing his address, Xi called for solidarity across nations, urging cooperation to create a shared future for humanity. He emphasised the importance of overcoming estrangement and conflict in a rapidly changing world.
“Dreams and wishes may be far, but they can be fulfilled with dedicated pursuit,” Xi stated. He concluded with hopes for prosperity and harmony, extending New Year greetings to the people of China and the world.
HT
