Xi inspects Guizhou, stresses high-quality development

GUIYANG, March 20 (Xinhua) -- During a recent inspection tour in southwest China's Guizhou Province, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized that Guizhou must fully implement the CPC Central Committee's strategic arrangements for the development of the country's western region and the Yangtze River Economic Belt, prioritize high-quality development as its overarching goal, and leverage further deepening reform and opening up comprehensively as a driving force. With firm confidence, hard work and solid steps, the province should seek progress while maintaining stability, strive to excel in all endeavors, and demonstrate new charm in the process of Chinese modernization.

On March 17 and 18, accompanied by Xu Lin, secretary of the CPC Guizhou Provincial Committee, and Li Bingjun, governor of the province, Xi inspected several places of the province, including Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture and the provincial capital of Guiyang.

On the afternoon of March 17, Xi inspected Zhaoxing Dong Village in Liping County, Qiandongnan prefecture. At the entrance of the ethnic village, villagers dressed in traditional ethnic attire welcomed Xi with a performance of the grand song of the Dong ethnic group. With keen interest, Xi listened to the introduction about the artistic origins, melodic characteristics and performance forms of the Dong folk chorus. He then strolled along the village paths, inspecting the surroundings and local tourist shops, stopping from time to time to chat with shopkeepers, tourists and villagers. At the Dong culture exhibition center, he learned about the preservation and inheritance of Dong culture, including its history, customs, traditional attire and architecture. At a local distinctive industry base, Xi observed the batik process, and commended the batik cooperative for its concept of putting customers and quality first. Noting that the cultures of ethnic minority groups are an integral part of Chinese culture, he stressed protecting tangible villages, dwellings and distinctive architecture, passing on intangible cultural heritage, and promoting creative transformation and innovative development to make ethnic features more prominent and vibrant.

While visiting the Xintuan Drum Tower, Xi sat down with village officials and villagers for an amiable chat, during which they eagerly shared with Xi the uplifting progress of the village in recent years. Xi expressed his delight at seeing the Dong village so well-preserved and its people living in contentment. He pointed out that the key to serving the people well lies in promoting primary-level Party building in rural areas and ensuring that Party branches and Party members play a pivotal, exemplary and vanguard role in leading the people to develop the economy and improve rural governance.

The moment Xi stood up before leaving the drum tower, villagers gathered around, applauding enthusiastically and greeting him warmly. With a bright smile, Xi responded by saying that the Dong people are sincere, hardworking, cultured and wise. He expressed his hope that they will do a better job in promoting rural revitalization as Chinese modernization advances, and wished them an even more prosperous life. When Xi was about to leave the Dong village, the local people started to sing in a heartwarming chorus "Sing Dong Songs to the Party," expressing their deep affection for Xi and their reluctance to say goodbye. Xi waved to the villagers to bid them farewell.

On the morning of March 18, Xi heard a briefing on the work of the CPC Guizhou Provincial Committee and the provincial government. He acknowledged the achievements Guizhou has made in various aspects, and made requirements for its future work.

Xi pointed out that high-quality development is an essential requirement for achieving Chinese modernization. Guizhou should blaze new trails with firm determination, strengthen innovation-driven development with the real economy as the foundation, coordinate the shift from old growth drivers to new ones, accelerate the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, actively develop strategic emerging industries, and strengthen the digital economy, new energy and other industries. It is essential to maintain resolve and patience, ensure scientific decision-making, implement targeted policies, and balance the relationship between speed and efficiency, thus effectively improving the quality of the economy and promoting its growth within a reasonable range. Efforts should also be made to protect the environment and transform ecological strengths into development advantages.

Xi stressed that a region's development vitality is closely associated with its business environment. Guizhou must actively integrate into the building of a unified national market and resolutely eliminate local protectionism, market segmentation and rat-race irrational competition, so as to create a stable, fair, transparent and predictable environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation across society. To improve the business environment, the province must advance reforms to remove obstacles and bottlenecks hindering high-quality development, while enhancing the training and management of officials to see that they think in big-picture terms, focus on serving the public, have a strong sense of integrity, and stay incorruptible. Openness is also an important element of the business environment. Guizhou should seize the opportunities presented by the development of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, proactively synergize with the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Chengdu-Chongqing economic zone, and take the initiative to integrate into the pattern of all-around opening up through links running eastward and westward, across land, and over sea.

Xi noted that Guizhou should, based on its local conditions, take solid steps to push forward urbanization centered on county seats, and promote the integrated advancement of boosting industrial development, strengthening county economies and improving the people's well-being. It is important to build on the county-level industrial foundation, attach importance to the division of labor and collaboration, adopt differentiated development approaches, and promote the integrated and clustered development. Efforts should be made to develop modern, high-efficiency agriculture with distinctive mountain characteristics tailored to local conditions, while cultivating leading industries with regional features and lasting market competitiveness. It is essential to improve the interest linkage mechanism and raise the people's incomes through industrial development. It is imperative to establish a unified monitoring and categorized assistance mechanism for low-income rural residents and ensure that the basic living needs of the people are met.

Xi highlighted Guizhou's rich historical heritage, vibrant revolutionary culture and diverse ethnic traditions, urging the province to leverage these strengths to boost cultural confidence, improve social conduct, and promote economic and social development. The province must work to strengthen the systematic preservation of villages with unique ethnic features, traditional villages, historical and cultural towns and villages, and historical sites from the revolutionary war period. Efforts should be sustained to change outdated social mores and actively foster positive new cultural and ethical trends. It is also important to deepen the integration of culture, tourism and sports, enrich tourism offerings, and establish "Colorful Guizhou" as a distinctive cultural tourism brand.

Xi pointed out that achieving high-quality development requires unwaveringly adhering to the Party's leadership and strengthening Party building. The CPC Central Committee has decided to launch a Party-wide education campaign to thoroughly implement the central Party leadership's eight-point decision on improving conduct, which is a key task for Party building this year. Party organizations at all levels must make meticulous efforts to carry out the education campaign, encouraging Party members and officials to consolidate resolve, cultivate habits and maintain an exemplary work style to build consensus, pool strength and pursue development. It is essential to work in concert to enhance Party consciousness, improve Party conduct and tighten Party discipline, while coordinating efforts to rectify misconduct, enforce discipline and combat corruption. Unremitting efforts must be made to eradicate the breeding grounds and conditions for corruption. It is crucial to carry forward the revolutionary spirit of the Long March and the Zunyi Meeting, and make solid progress in the Long March of the new era with high morale.

Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.

He Lifeng and leading officials of relevant central Party and government departments also joined the inspection tour. ■

Xi stresses role of education in supporting sci-tech, talent development

BEIJING, March 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, paid a visit on March 6 to national political advisors from the China Democratic League (CDL), the China Association for Promoting Democracy (CAPD), and the education sector, who are attending the third session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Beijing. Xi attended their joint group meeting, and listened to their comments and suggestions. He emphasized that on the new journey of the new era, it is essential to deeply understand the needs of Chinese modernization for education, science and technology, and talent. It is crucial to strengthen the role of education in supporting scientific and technological advancement as well as talent development, and to further create a dynamic environment where a steady stream of talent emerges, their full potential is unlocked, and their abilities fully utilized.

As International Women's Day approaches, Xi, on behalf of the CPC Central Committee, extended festive greetings and best wishes to the female deputies, female members, and female staff taking part in the sessions of the National People's Congress and the CPPCC National Committee. He also extended greetings to women from all ethnic groups and sectors across the country, as well as to those in the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, Taiwan and overseas.

Wang Huning, chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, joined Xi in the discussion with political advisors. Wang and Cai are also members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.

During the joint group meeting, six political advisors -- Zhang Yunkai, Cai Guangjie, Zheng Jiajian, Xu Kun, Cui Yali, and Ma Jinglin -- made remarks on the following topics: promoting coordinated development between vocational education and regional industries; optimizing resource allocation for basic education; fostering a reading-friendly ecosystem for children and adolescents; advancing the development of the national education intelligence network; promoting integrated development of education, technology, and talent cultivation; leveraging school curriculum to promote traditional culture.

After listening to their remarks, Xi delivered an important speech. He said that he was glad to discuss with participants and listen to comments and suggestions. On behalf of the CPC Central Committee, he extended sincere greetings to the members present, as well as to the members of the CDL, the CAPD and the education sector, and all CPPCC members.

Xi noted that over the past year, the CPPCC has performed its duties earnestly in line with the central tasks and made new contributions to the development of the cause of the Party and the country. The organizations at all levels of the CDL and the CAPD and their members have focused on the central tasks, put forward suggestions and taken part in social services, making new progress in their work. People from the education sector have devoted themselves to building China into a leading country in education, and made new strides in promoting the integrated development of education aimed at nurturing people with sound moral grounding, intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility and work skills, and in fostering virtue through education.

Xi stressed that building China into a leading country in education, science and technology and talent requires a correct orientation in running schools and nurturing young people with sound moral grounding, intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility, and work skills, who are capable of developing and carrying forward the socialist cause. It is imperative to focus on drawing on the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era to forge inner strength and inspire the people, while moral education should be implemented throughout the whole process of cultivating students with sound intellectual ability, physical vigor, aesthetic sensibility and work skills. It is essential to synchronize enhancing political education curriculum and equipping students with the Party's new theories, as well as raising students' political and ideological awareness through all courses. It is essential to effectively integrate the "small classrooms" of political education with the "big classrooms" of society, so as to ensure that moral education can be carried out effectively.

Xi noted that deepening comprehensive reform in education is fundamental to the building of a high-quality education system and developing education that meets the people's expectations. It is important to establish a scientific system for educational assessments that plays a guiding role. It is imperative to continuously improve the level of law-based governance of education and management by refining the system for school management and ensuring schools' autonomy to make decisions about their own affairs. With a focus on the needs of modernization and adapting to changes in demographic structure, efforts should be made to ensure the coordinated development of basic education, higher education and vocational education, and coordinate government and social investments, so that a more rational and efficient mechanism will be established for the allocation of educational resources.

Xi stressed that to realize the virtuous cycle of independent technological innovation and independent cultivation of talent, the pioneering and basic supporting role of education must be further leveraged. It is important to implement the program for breakthroughs in basic and inter-disciplinary fields, and create platforms for joint innovation among schools, enterprises and local regions so as to ensure more efficient application of scientific and technological achievements. Efforts should be made to improve mechanisms aligning talent cultivation with the needs of economic and social development, and to enhance the quality and effectiveness of independent talent cultivation. It is essential to implement the national strategy for the digitalization of education, build a learning society, and speed up the cultivation of large numbers of talent across all sectors and levels.

Xi stressed that it is a shared responsibility of the whole Party and society to build a leading nation in education, science and technology, and talent cultivation. The CPPCC should give full play to its role as a specialized consultative body, and work to rally public support, build consensus, and pool wisdom and strength to promote high-quality development in education, science and technology, and talent. Members of the CDL, the CAPD and those in the education sector should leverage their strengths to actively participate in and support the integrated reform and development of systems and mechanisms relating to education, science, technology, and talent cultivation, contributing their wisdom and efforts to enhancing the overall efficiency of the national innovation system.

Shi Taifeng, Ding Zhongli, Cai Dafeng, Hu Chunhua, Wang Dongfeng, Jiang Xinzhi, Wang Guangqian, Zhu Yongxin, and others attended the joint group meeting. ■

Xi urges Jiangsu to play major role in national development

BEIJING, March 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, said on March 5 that economic powerhouses should play a major role in successfully achieving the development goals of the country's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). Xi made the remarks when taking part in a deliberation with his fellow lawmakers from east China's Jiangsu Province during the third session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), China's national legislature. Jiangsu, an economic powerhouse, should take the lead in integrating technological innovation with industrial innovation, advancing in-depth reform and high-standard opening up, and implementing major national development strategies, Xi said, adding that it should set an example in pursuing common prosperity.

The deputies of Jiangsu delegation conducted their deliberations earnestly, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Six deputies, including Zhao Jianjun, Xu Guanghui, Zhang Junjie, Li Xiaona, Miao Hangen, and Ke Jun, delivered speeches on various topics. Their presentations focused on accelerating the transition to green and low-carbon development, establishing industrial and technological innovation centers, promoting the development of translational medicine, building harmonious communities, advancing the development of traditional industries, and preserving and passing down traditional operas.

After listening to the deputies' presentations, Xi delivered a speech. He expressed approval of the government work report, affirmed what the province has achieved, and urged it to fulfill its pivotal responsibilities and strive for greater achievements.

Xi pointed out that technological innovation and industrial innovation constitute the fundamental pathways to developing new quality productive forces. To advance scientific and technological innovation, it is essential to modernize the industrial system and coordinate the development of education, science and technology, and talent cultivation, so that more sci-tech advances will be achieved and turned into concrete productive forces. To pursue industrial innovation, it is a must to ensure the foundational role of the real economy. The same importance must be attached to both advancing the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries and forging new tracks for strategic emerging industries and future industries. To integrate technological innovation with industrial innovation, it is imperative to build platforms, improve mechanisms and institutions, strengthen the principal role of enterprises in innovation, and achieve seamless alignment of the innovation and industrial chains.

Xi stressed that the bigger the economic size is, the stronger driving force it requires for its further development. It is imperative for Jiangsu to pioneer in development, seek all-round improvement, and constantly overcome obstacles and boost growth drivers through deepening reform and opening up. Jiangsu is urged to fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts, keep in mind both domestic and international imperatives, promote integrated urban and rural development and interaction among different regions, optimize the layout of productive forces, and strive to advance high-quality development. It is imperative for the province to deepen reform on market-based allocation of resources, and take the initiative to address issues such as local protectionism, market division and "rat race" competitions. It is essential to fully implement the guiding principles of the symposium on private enterprises held in February, treat all enterprises equally no matter what their ownership is, and make sustained efforts to improve the business environment. It is imperative to steadily expand institutional opening up and create more room for international cooperation.

Xi noted that economic powerhouses should shoulder greater responsibilities in implementing the country's major development strategies. He urged Jiangsu to take initiative and cooperate with others in development strategies including the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta region and the development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. It is important for Jiangsu to strengthen its strategic alignment with major national initiatives including the coordinated development of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region and the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, deeply integrate its growth into the high-quality development of the Belt and Road Initiative, and do a good job in pairing assistance to Xizang and Xinjiang. The province should fulfill its responsibilities in making sure that the line is never crossed when it comes to the protection of arable land, ensuring food security, safeguarding ecological environment, and guaranteeing water source safety for the South-to-North Water Diversion Project.

Xi stressed that major provinces with faster economic growth should blaze a new trail and play an exemplary role in promoting common prosperity. Jiangsu should make sustained efforts in advancing all-round rural revitalization and integrated urban-rural development, and consolidating and expanding achievements in poverty alleviation. The province was urged to intensify its practical work in extending basic, inclusive and safety-net public support for the wellbeing of residents, and adopt pragmatic approaches in addressing immediate concerns of the people. The province should improve its social security system and enhance the accessibility and balanced distribution of basic public services. Jiangsu must make greater efforts to ensure employment, which is the most fundamental aspect of people's livelihood, further advance the cultural and ethical progress in both urban and rural areas, and optimize the supply of cultural products and services to promote economic and social development through cultural progress.

Xi stressed that major economic powerhouses, while shouldering greater responsibilities, must uphold the Party's overall leadership and drive high-quality development through high-quality Party building. Party organizations at all levels must enhance their political and organizational functions. Officials and Party members must courageously shoulder heavy duties and forge ahead, adopt the style of doing work in a down-to-earth manner, and set a good example in abiding by disciplines as well as being clean and upright, so as to unite and lead the people in continuously opening up new prospects for economic and social development.

Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, was present at the event.

Mu Hong and others also attended the event.■ 

Xi stresses advancing Peaceful China Initiative to higher level

BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held its 19th group study session on the morning of Feb. 28, focusing on building a Peaceful China at a higher level. While presiding over the session, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, stressed that building a higher-level Peaceful China bears on the full development of our undertakings, the well-being of the people, and the long-term stability of the country. We must unwaveringly implement a holistic approach to national security, and make sustained efforts to enhance national security, social order, governance effectiveness and public satisfaction, thereby advancing the Peaceful China Initiative to a higher level.

Li Yan, vice president and professor of Southwest University of Political Science and Law, lectured on the topic and offered her suggestions on related work. Members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee listened attentively and had a discussion.

Xi delivered an important speech following the lecture and the discussion. He noted that since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee has continuously improved the leadership, legal, strategy and policy systems for national security, improved the social governance system, strengthened the holistic approach to ensuring law and order, enhanced public safety governance, and resolutely safeguarded national sovereignty, security, and development interests. As a result, China has successfully written a new chapter in sustaining the twin miracles of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability. In keeping with the evolving situation and tasks, the building of a Peaceful China can only be strengthened, not weakened.

Xi stressed that the holistic approach to national security provides important guidance for building a Peaceful China at a higher level and must be firmly implemented. Party committees and governments at all levels must adhere to systems thinking, further reinforce the concept that both development and security are of paramount importance, and consciously coordinate development and security in their work by pursuing joint planning and unified deployment for mutual reinforcement. They must keep in mind the full picture of national development and make concerted efforts to create conditions for the overall security of the country by ensuring the security of each local region and sector, thus laying a solid foundation for the long-term stability and security of the country by promptly and effectively addressing each security issue.

He noted that the Peaceful China Initiative is for the people and relies on the people. Efforts must be made to continuously improve public well-being, steadily advance common prosperity, effectively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the people, and uphold social fairness and justice. It is essential to refine the social governance system, enhance the systems and mechanisms for social work, and foster a community of social governance in which everyone fulfills their responsibilities and shares the benefits. We must cultivate self-esteem, self-confidence, rationality, composure and optimism among the people, while promoting an up-to-date ethos of enterprise, dedication, rule of law, and civility.

Xi emphasized that forestalling and defusing all kinds of risks is a major task in advancing the Peaceful China Initiative. It is imperative to prioritize the protection of the country's political security, while resolutely safeguarding the security of state power, systems and ideology. We must improve the public safety system, steer a shift in public safety governance toward a prevention-based model, and strengthen efforts in disaster prevention, mitigation and relief, workplace safety, food and drug safety, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence security and other areas. We must also strive to prevent risks in key areas.

Xi noted that building a higher-level Peaceful China requires strengthening the holistic approach to maintaining law and order. We must combine targeted governance practices with systematic, law-based and comprehensive approaches, while addressing issues at the source. Efforts should be made to build a true iron wall for crime prevention and control by boosting public participation. It is essential to apply and further develop the Fengqiao model for promoting community-level governance in the new era, advance the law-based handling of public complaints and proposals, and resolve all kinds of disputes in a timely and effective manner.

Xi stressed that the Party's leadership is the fundamental guarantee for promoting the Peaceful China Initiative. It is a must to always uphold the absolute leadership of the CPC Central Committee over national security work and judicial, procuratorial and public security work. Party committees at all levels must play a leading role in assuming overall responsibility and coordinating the efforts of all sides in advancing the Peaceful China Initiative. It is essential to strengthen positive publicity and guide public opinion, make judicious use of modern scientific and technological means to enhance social governance effectiveness, and develop a team of high-caliber judicial, procuratorial and public security personnel of the new era who are loyal, clean and responsible.■

Xi chairs CPC leadership meeting to discuss draft government work report

BEIJING, March 2 (Xinhua) -- The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee convened a meeting on Feb. 28 to discuss a draft government work report to be submitted by the State Council to the third session of the 14th National People's Congress for deliberation. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting.

It was noted at the meeting that last year, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core coordinated national imperatives, navigated changes with composure, and united and led the whole Party and the Chinese people of all ethnic groups in successfully accomplishing the main goals and tasks of economic and social development. As a result, the Chinese economy maintained overall stability and made steady progress. The country effectively promoted high-quality development, maintained overall social stability, and made new solid strides in advancing Chinese modernization.

At the meeting, it was stressed that this year marks the final year for implementing the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). To do a good job in government work, it is imperative to follow the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, stay committed to the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. We must act on the guidelines of the Central Economic Work Conference, adhere to the general principle of pursuing progress while maintaining stability, and fully and accurately implement the new development philosophy on all fronts. We must accelerate the creation of a new pattern of development, effectively advance high-quality development, further deepen reform comprehensively, expand high-standard opening up, build a modern industrial system, and better coordinate development and security. It is also essential to implement more proactive and impactful macro policies, expand domestic demand, promote the integrated development of scientific and technological innovation and industrial innovation, stabilize the real estate and stock markets, prevent and defuse risks in key areas and external shocks, stabilize expectations and stimulate vitality, promote sustained economic recovery, continuously raise people's living standards, maintain social harmony and stability, and fulfill the goals and tasks in the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality to lay a solid foundation for a strong start to the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030).

Other matters were also discussed at the meeting. ■

Senior Party officials report work to CPC Central Committee, General Secretary Xi Jinping

BEIJING, Feb. 27 (Xinhua) -- In accordance with the regulations of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, every year, members of the Political Bureau and the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, members of the leading Party members' groups of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the State Council and the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and secretaries of the leading Party members' groups of the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate shall submit written reports on their work to the CPC Central Committee and its General Secretary Xi Jinping. Following the regulations, these officials have recently submitted their 2024 work reports to the CPC Central Committee and the General Secretary.

Xi carefully reviewed the work reports and made important requirements, emphasizing that this year marks the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and is also a critical year for further deepening reform comprehensively, with arduous tasks ahead regarding reform, development and stability. The officials must thoroughly study and implement the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and fully implement the guiding principles from the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee. They must boost their consciousness of the need to maintain political integrity, think in big-picture terms, follow the leadership core, and keep in alignment with the central Party leadership. They must stay confident in the path, the theory, the system and the culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics. It is also imperative to uphold the core position of the General Secretary on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the CPC Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. They must resolutely implement the major policies, decisions and plans made by the CPC Central Committee, and work to achieve the targets set forth in the 14th Five-Year Plan to a high standard, thus laying a solid foundation for a good start to the upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) period. They must enhance political competence, calmly respond to the challenges brought about by changes at home and abroad, adhere to the general principle of seeking progress while ensuring stability, fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts, accelerate the creation of a new pattern of development, make solid efforts in promoting high-quality development, further deepen reform comprehensively, expand high-standard opening up, promote a sustained economic recovery, steadily improve people's living standards, and ensure overall social stability. The officials must enhance Party and ideological consciousness, establish and practice a correct understanding of what it means to perform well, strengthen investigation and research, strictly abide by the central Party leadership's eight-point decision on improving work conduct and the detailed rules for its implementation, and proactively fulfill the political responsibility for governance over the Party. The officials must remain committed to their respective duties, make it a priority to get things done, fulfill responsibilities and overcome challenges, ensure that all decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee are fully implemented, and take on new responsibilities and make new achievements on the new journey of advancing Chinese modernization on all fronts. ■

Xi urges healthy, high-quality development of private sector

BEIJING, Feb. 19 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, attended a symposium on private enterprises in Beijing on the morning of Feb. 17 and delivered an important speech. He stressed that the basic principles and policies of the Party and the country regarding the development of the private sector have been incorporated into the system of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and will be consistently upheld and implemented. These principles and policies cannot and will not be changed. On the new journey of the new era, the private economy has broad development prospects and immense potential, and it is the perfect time for private companies and entrepreneurs to fully demonstrate their prowess. It is imperative to unify thinking, strengthen confidence, and promote the healthy and high-quality development of the private sector. It is hoped that private enterprises and entrepreneurs dedicate themselves to serving the nation, focus on development, operate lawfully and effectively, and promote common prosperity while pursuing wealth, thereby making new and greater contributions to advancing Chinese modernization.

Li Qiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chinese premier, and Ding Xuexiang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chinese vice premier, also attended the symposium. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, presided over the symposium.

Six representatives of private entrepreneurs -- Huawei CEO Ren Zhengfei, BYD Chairman Wang Chuanfu, New Hope Group Chairman Liu Yonghao, Will Semiconductor Chairman Yu Renrong, Unitree Robotics CEO Wang Xingxing, and Xiaomi Chairman Lei Jun -- spoke successively at the symposium. They shared their insights and suggestions on promoting the private sector's development under new circumstances.

Xi delivered an important speech after listening to the entrepreneurs. He said private enterprises have flourished along with the grand journey of reform and opening up. For decades, our Party's theory and practice have been consistent and kept pace with the times with regard to the understanding of the status and role of the private sector in reform, opening up and socialist modernization, as well as concerning the Party and the country's guidelines and policies on the sector's development. While upholding and improving the basic socialist economic system, the Party and the country are committed to unswervingly consolidating and developing the public sector and unswervingly encouraging, supporting and guiding the development of the non-public sector. The Party and the country ensure that economic entities under all forms of ownership have equal access to factors of production in accordance with the law, compete on a level playing field and are protected by the law as equals, thus enabling them to complement each other and develop side by side, and facilitating the healthy development of the non-public sector and those working in it.

Xi pointed out that the country's private sector boasts a considerable scale and carries heavy weight, laying a solid foundation for advancing the high-quality development of the private sector. On the new journey of the new era, China's productive forces will make new strides, people's living standards will improve steadily, and reform and opening up will be further deepened in an all-around way. In particular, with the rapid development of education, science and technology, a vast and high-caliber talent pool and workforce, well-developed industrial and infrastructure systems, and a supersized market of more than 1.4 billion people with huge potential, the private sector enjoys abundant new opportunities and greater headroom for development. The system of socialism with Chinese characteristics possesses salient advantages in various respects, and the socialist market economy and the system of socialist rule of law with Chinese characteristics have been constantly improved, providing a stronger guarantee for the development of the private sector.

Xi stressed that the difficulties and challenges currently faced by the private sector in its development generally emerged during the process of reform, development, and industrial transformation and upgrading. They are localized rather than systemic, temporary rather than long-lasting, and surmountable rather than unsolvable. It is imperative to align thoughts and actions with the CPC Central Committee's assessment of the domestic and international situations, and the CPC Central Committee's decisions and plans for economic work. Despite the difficulties and challenges, it is important to see the path forward and the bright future, stay committed to development, bolster confidence, and maintain an enterprising spirit.

Xi noted that effectively implementing policies and measures to support the private sector is our current focus for promoting the sector's development. The CPC Central Committee's decisions must be resolutely implemented without any compromise. It is a must to decisively remove all barriers that hinder equal and lawful access to factors of production and fair participation in market competition. We should constantly advance the opening of competitive sectors in infrastructure to all types of market entities on fair terms, intensify efforts to tackle the difficulties and high costs of financing for private enterprises, and strive to address payment arrears owed to private enterprises. It is imperative to strengthen law enforcement supervision, take focused actions to fight arbitrary charges, fines, inspections and seizures, and effectively protect the lawful rights and interests of private businesses and entrepreneurs in accordance with the law. At the same time, it is important to recognize that China is a socialist country under the rule of law, and thus no illegal activities by enterprises of any ownership type will escape investigation and punishment. It is essential to earnestly implement various relief policies, make the policies more targeted, adopt comprehensive measures, and treat all enterprises equally. Further efforts are needed to cultivate a cordial and clean relationship between government and business. Party committees and governments at all levels must base their actions on local conditions and coordinate efforts to ensure the effective implementation of policies and measures for promoting the private sector's development.

Xi emphasized that enterprises are major players in the market, and their internal driving force for development is of primary importance. Private businesses and entrepreneurs should maintain their passion for entrepreneurship and serving the country, pursue loftier ideals, and nurture a deep love for the country. They should keep in mind where they started and seek further advancements as they prosper. They should also promote the entrepreneurial spirit, focus on strengthening, optimizing and expanding their businesses, and be steadfast contributors to building socialism with Chinese characteristics and advancing Chinese modernization. It is necessary to unswervingly pursue high-quality development, focus on core business, strengthen the real economy, boost independent innovation, transform development models, and continuously enhance the quality, efficiency and core competitiveness of enterprises. They should strive to contribute more to promoting scientific and technological innovation, cultivating new quality productive forces, modernizing the industrial system, advancing rural revitalization comprehensively, facilitating coordinated regional development, and ensuring and improving the people's well-being. They should improve their governance structures by following the requirements of the modern corporate system with Chinese characteristics, regulate shareholder conduct, strengthen internal supervision, and improve risk prevention mechanisms. They should continuously refine mechanisms for the use, management and protection of production factors, including labor, talent, knowledge, technology, capital and data, while placing emphasis on cultivating company successors. It is crucial to uphold integrity and comply with the law in business operations, and establish correct values and ethical principles to drive the healthy development of the private sector through concrete actions. Furthermore, they must proactively fulfill their social responsibilities, foster harmonious labor relations, prioritize ecological and environmental protection, and participate in public welfare and charitable endeavors to the best of their capabilities to generously give back to society.

While presiding over the symposium, Wang Huning said that General Secretary Xi's important speech gave full recognition to the significant achievements in the private sector's development and its important contributions to the country's economic and social progress. The speech highlighted the need to correctly understand the opportunities and challenges facing the private sector, and drew up a comprehensive road map for promoting the sector's healthy and high-quality development at present and for some time to come. The speech is profound in vision, deep in thought, incisive in argumentation, and rich in content. We must earnestly study and resolutely implement it. It is essential to strengthen confidence in development, enhance awareness of the overall situation, apply systems thinking, uphold the rule of law and ensure the effective implementation of various policies, thus opening up a new chapter in the development of the private sector.

Shi Taifeng, Li Shulei, He Lifeng, Wu Zhenglong and Mu Hong attended the symposium.

Also present were leading officials from relevant central Party and government departments and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, as well as representatives of private enterprise executives.■

Xi hears work report from CPC Jilin provincial committee, provincial government

CHANGCHUN, Feb. 10 (Xinhua) -- When hearing a work report of the Jilin Provincial Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the provincial government, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, emphasized that Jilin must fully implement the CPC Central Committee's strategic arrangements for the full revitalization of northeast China in the new era, and firmly recognize northeast China's important mission in safeguarding national defense, food, ecological, energy and industrial security. The province must focus on high-quality development, fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts, actively contribute to and integrate into the new development pattern, and further deepen reform and opening up in an all-around way. Jilin should seize opportunities, build on existing momentum, embrace innovation and make diligent and pragmatic efforts to play a greater role in advancing Chinese modernization.

On the morning of Feb. 8, Xi listened to the work report in Changchun, the capital city of Jilin. The report was delivered by Huang Qiang, secretary of the provincial Party committee. Hu Yuting, the provincial governor, and other officials were present at the meeting.

After being briefed, Xi delivered an important speech, commending Jilin's achievements in various respects and outlining requirements for the next phase of its development.

Xi pointed out that high-quality development cannot be achieved without innovation and a solid industrial foundation. It is essential to unswervingly take the real economy as the cornerstone and make coordinated efforts in transforming traditional industries, strengthening competitive industries and fostering new quality productive forces to build a modernized industrial system that demonstrates Jilin's own distinctive features. Efforts should be made to push forward the deep integration of scientific and technological innovation with industrial innovation, strengthen the integration of scientific research resources, reinforce the principal role of enterprises in innovation, and improve the innovation ecosystem. With such efforts, Jilin should strive to make new breakthroughs in major scientific and technological projects and translate scientific achievements into real productivity. The province must coordinate ecological conservation and environmental protection with green and low-carbon development, and leverage its ice and snow resources, natural scenery, ethnic charm and other special resources to develop the tourism industry. It should also push forward coordinated regional development, promote the building of the Changchun metropolitan circle, and foster synergy with other provincial-level regions in northeast China to realize integrated development.

Xi stressed that further deepening reform and opening up comprehensively is crucial for the full revitalization of northeast China. It is imperative to target bottlenecks that hinder the fostering of a new development pattern and the advancement of high-quality development, and to address difficulties and challenges regarding people's well-being. Reform agendas should be set and reform plans should be drawn up to resolve deep-seated problems and remove institutional barriers. In deepening the reform of state-owned assets and enterprises and promoting the development of the private sector, related policies and regulations must be fully implemented, exemplary models should be followed, and efforts should be made to address common challenges and specific problems. Jilin should actively integrate into the building of a unified national market, foster a first-rate business environment that is market-oriented, law-based and internationalized, and develop new institutions for a higher-standard open economy.

He noted that ensuring national food security is a political responsibility of major agricultural and grain-producing provinces. Jilin must prioritize the development of large-scale modern agriculture, improve supporting systems to strengthen agriculture, benefit farmers and enrich rural areas, and coordinate efforts to apply technologies, promote green development, improve quality and nurture well-known brands in agriculture. It is essential to actively develop eco-friendly breeding, strengthen the deep processing of agricultural products and the fine processing of food, fully optimize the entire value chain from grain to food, livestock to meat, and agriculture to industry, and build a diversified food supply system. To promote shared prosperity in urban and rural areas, the province must coordinate the planning of urban and rural spatial layouts, industrial development, public services and infrastructure construction, and promote the integrated advancement of boosting industrial development, strengthening county economies and improving people's well-being. Efforts should also be made to consolidate and expand the achievements of poverty alleviation, strengthen and innovate community-level governance, enhance social etiquette and civility in rural areas, and build a safe, law-based, beautiful and harmonious countryside that is desirable to live and work in.

Xi stressed that as a multiethnic province, Jilin must fully implement the Party's theories and policies concerning ethnic groups in the new era and the Party's fundamental guidelines for the work related to religious affairs, advance the building of a community for the Chinese nation, and promote interaction, exchange and integration among all ethnic groups. The province should guide people from all ethnic groups to develop a correct understanding of the country, history, ethnicity, culture and religion, and work hard to open up a new chapter for ethnic unity and progress. Jilin must also advance the development of border areas and improve people's lives by developing border trade and industries with distinctive features based on local conditions.

He emphasized the importance of pursuing development while ensuring security at all times. It is essential to implement measures to prevent and defuse risks in key fields, strengthen natural disaster prevention, early warning and response, conduct thorough inspections to eliminate workplace safety hazards and maintain social stability.

Xi stressed that high-quality Party building should play a leading role in boosting high-quality development. It is important to firmly follow the right approach to selecting and appointing officials, guiding officials at all levels, especially leading officials, to have a correct understanding of what it means to perform well, enhance capabilities, shoulder responsibilities and strive for excellent performance. Efforts are needed to consolidate and expand the results of Party discipline education. It is essential to work in concert to enhance Party consciousness, improve Party conduct and tighten Party discipline, while synergizing efforts to rectify misconduct, enforce discipline and combat corruption. Work must be done to improve mechanisms for checking and supervising the allocation and exercise of power, continue addressing pointless formalities to reduce burdens at the primary level, and persist in tackling improper practices and corruption that affect the public. Efforts should also be made to encourage officials to be proactive in their work while abiding by rules and discipline, maintaining integrity and remaining incorruptible.

Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, attended the work report meeting.

He Lifeng, Wang Xiaohong and leading officials from relevant departments of the central Party and state organs were present at the meeting.■

Full text: Remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping at welcoming banquet of opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games

HARBIN, Feb. 7 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan, on Friday hosted a banquet in China's northeastern city of Harbin to welcome international dignitaries who are here to attend the opening ceremony of the 9th Asian Winter Games.

The following is the full text of Xi's remarks at the banquet:

Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping

President of the People's Republic of China

At the Welcoming Banquet of the Opening Ceremony

Of the Ninth Asian Winter Games Harbin

Harbin, February 7, 2025

Distinguished Colleagues,

Your Excellency IOC President Thomas Bach,

Your Excellency OCA Vice President Timothy Tsun Ting Fok,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

As the Chinese people celebrate the Spring Festival, I wish to extend, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, and also in the name of my wife and myself, a warm welcome and festive greetings to all the distinguished guests!

The cauldron of the Ninth Asian Winter Games will be lit tonight. From the Olympic Winter Games Beijing to the Asian Winter Games Harbin, the passion in China for ice and snow has swept across the nation. It has also invigorated winter sports around the world. The current Asian Winter Games sets a new record in its history in the numbers of participating countries, regions and athletes. I believe that with the joint efforts of the Olympic Council of Asia and delegations from all participating countries and regions, Harbin will present to the world a great sports event that is distinctly Chinese, uniquely Asian and spectacular, thus writing a new, magnificent chapter of ice and snow sports.

The theme of the Ninth Asian Winter Games -- "Dream of Winter, Love among Asia" -- embodies the shared aspiration and desire of the Asian people for peace, development and friendship.

We should uphold our shared dream for tranquility and harmony. Peace is as pure as ice and snow. No matter how the international landscape evolves, we should join hands together to meet all kinds of security challenges and contribute Asian strength to building an equal and orderly multipolar world.

We should pursue our shared aspiration for prosperity and development. Winter sports are fascinating because they require passion and collaboration. We should work together to promote progress and development, and provide sustained drive for a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

We should fulfill our shared desire for friendship and affinity. Every snowflake is unique, and every civilization is distinctive. Asia is a convergence of the world's diverse civilizations. We should promote inclusiveness, coexistence and mutual learning, and contribute more to the development and progress of human civilization.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

Harbin, the renowned "Ice City," is the birthplace of China's modern winter sports. We feel truly in here that ice and snow are as valuable as gold and silver. The ice and snow culture and economy are becoming a new driving force for the high-quality development of Harbin and a new bond linking the city and the world. We welcome you to explore this hospitable, open and inclusive land of black soil, and to trace the path of Chinese modernization.

China has just entered the Year of the Snake. Among the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac, the snake represents wisdom and agility. The Year of the Snake will surely brim with vigor and vitality. I wish all athletes excellent performance with the agility of the snake. May you all have beautiful and unforgettable memories of ice and snow in Harbin.

Now, I would like to propose a toast:

To the great success of the Ninth Asian Winter Games;

To the dynamic development of the Olympic Movement;

To the solidarity and friendship of the Asian people; and

To the health of all the distinguished guests and your families.

Cheers! ■

Xi lauds China's solid progress despite challenges in Year of Dragon

BEIJING, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the State Council held a Spring Festival reception for the year 2025 at the Great Hall of the People on the morning of Jan. 27. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered a speech. On behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, Xi extended Spring Festival greetings to the people of all ethnic groups in China, to compatriots in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Macao Special Administrative Region and Taiwan, and to overseas Chinese.

Xi stressed that the outgoing Year of the Dragon has been a year in which we have invigorated our spirits and weathered storms to see rainbows. Facing complex and challenging situations throughout the year, we have responded with composure and implemented a range of comprehensive measures, overcome difficulties, forged ahead with determination, and taken new and solid strides in advancing Chinese modernization.

Li Qiang presided over the gathering. Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, Han Zheng and other leaders attended the event.

The banquet hall of the Great Hall of the People was brightly lit, radiating warmth and grandeur. More than 2,000 people from all walks of life gathered to celebrate the upcoming festival, filling the venue with a festive atmosphere of joy and harmony.

At around 10 a.m., Xi and other Party and state leaders entered the hall to cheerful music. They warmly greeted the attendees, and exchanged Spring Festival greetings and wishes with them. The hall erupted into rapturous applause.

In his speech, Xi noted that over the past year, we have made solid progress in pursuing high-quality development, effectively implemented existing policies, proactively introduced a package of incremental policies, and promoted economic recovery and sound development. Significant achievements have been made in technological and industrial innovation, and new quality productive forces have been promoted steadily. Fresh progress has been secured in coordinated regional development and integrated urban-rural development. From a global perspective, China has remained a major engine of global economic growth. We have adopted a coordinated and balanced approach to advance various undertakings, and achieved new progress in advancing socialist democracy and rule of law, pushing for cultural, social and ecological advancement, and promoting national defense and military development. We celebrated the 75th founding anniversary of the People's Republic of China. The third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee was convened to further deepen reform comprehensively. Efforts have been made to ensure and improve people's livelihood, keep employment and consumer prices stable, and further consolidate and expand the achievements in poverty alleviation. We have ensured both development and security, defused risks in key sectors in an orderly and effective manner, and maintained overall social stability. Decisive actions have been taken in response to major natural disasters, including effective rescue and relief efforts following the earthquake in Xizang's Dingri County, a high-altitude and low-oxygen region. Sustained efforts have been made in work related to Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, with celebrations held to mark the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland. At the Paris Olympics, Chinese athletes achieved their best-ever overseas results, which made all Chinese people at home and abroad immensely proud. We have further advanced major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, actively promoted the reform of the global governance system, enhanced the solidarity and cooperation of the Global South, and deepened and solidified high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. With such efforts, the country has injected more positive energy into safeguarding world peace and stability and promoting human development and progress. We have persevered with full and rigorous Party self-governance, carried out Party discipline education, and continued to intensify the fight against corruption. As a result, we have ensured the Party's strong leadership and continuously improved Party and government conduct, thus providing a fundamental guarantee for the development of all undertakings.

Xi stressed that the past year has been an extraordinary journey with encouraging results. We have proven once again with our hard work that no difficulty or obstacle can stop Chinese people's pursuit of a better life or block the historical course of building a strong country and rejuvenating the nation. We will undoubtedly break new ground in reform and development as long as we remain steadfast in our conviction and confidence, face problems and obstacles squarely, and deal with risks and challenges without flinching.

He noted that 2025 is the final year for implementing the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). We must follow the guidance of the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress as well as the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, adhere to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability, and remain committed to focusing on high-quality development. We must fully and faithfully apply the new development philosophy on all fronts, accelerate the creation of a new development pattern, further deepen reform across the board, expand high-standard opening up, guard against and defuse risks in key areas and external shocks, promote sustained economic recovery, maintain social harmony and stability, and make significant advances in exercising full and rigorous Party self-governance. We will formulate proposals for the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) and continue to strive toward our grand goals.

Xi emphasized that we must always place the people front and center, respond promptly and effectively to public needs and concerns, and work hard to deliver solid results concerning people's lives, thereby constantly improving people's living standards and ensuring that more benefits of modernization are shared among all the people in a more equitable way.

Xi noted that in Chinese culture, the snake embodies wisdom and vitality, symbolizing harvest, good fortune and auspicious blessings. As the Year of the Snake unfolds, it is hoped that people of all ethnic groups across the country will draw inspiration from the snake's enduring vitality, fortify confidence, cherish hope and forge ahead with a pioneering spirit to jointly write a new chapter in advancing Chinese modernization.

Art workers gave a wonderful performance at the reception.

Leading officials and retired senior officials of the CPC Central Committee, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the State Council, the Supreme People's Court, the Supreme People's Procuratorate, the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and the Central Military Commission attended the reception.

The event was also attended by leading officials of central Party and government departments, the military and people's organizations, as well as leading officials of the Beijing municipal government. Also present were leading officials of non-CPC political parties' central committees and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, representatives of personages without party affiliation, representatives of retired veterans and officials, renowned experts and scholars, and representatives from all walks of life in Beijing.■

Xi pays visit to primary-level officials, residents in Liaoning ahead of Spring Festival

SHENYANG, Jan. 28 (Xinhua) -- As the traditional Chinese New Year draws near, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, braved the cold to make an inspection trip to Liaoning Province, where he visited primary-level officials and residents. He also extended Spring Festival greetings to the Chinese people of all ethnic groups, compatriots in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Macao Special Administrative Region and Taiwan, and overseas Chinese. He wished all Chinese people at home and abroad good health, success in work, family happiness, and good fortune in the Year of the Snake! He also wished for the great motherland to enjoy peace, favorable weather for bumper harvest and prosperity.

From Jan. 22 to 24, Xi visited Huludao, Shenyang and Benxi cities, accompanied by Hao Peng, secretary of the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee, and Provincial Governor Li Lecheng. During the visit, Xi conducted in-depth inspections of a village, a market, a community and an enterprise, conveying solicitude and good wishes from the CPC Central Committee to primary-level officials and residents.

On the afternoon of Jan. 22, Xi arrived in Huludao City and took a nearly one-hour ride to Zhujiagou Village in Suizhong County. Last August, the village suffered severe flooding, and 41 affected households moved into newly built homes before winter. At the entrance of the village, Xi inspected the affected areas, asking in detail about the flooding of houses and the relocation of villagers. He then went to the village's service center for Party and public affairs, where he learned about the progress of post-disaster recovery and reconstruction through videos and display boards. Xi urged local officials to ensure the well-being of the villagers, making sure they stay warm during the winter.

As the day marked the Kitchen God Festival, or the Little New Year on the Chinese lunar calendar, every household put up Spring Festival couplets and window decorations in preparation for the upcoming celebrations. Xi visited villagers Zhu Xicun and Wang Baowei, checking the structural quality of their homes and asking about their preparations for the Chinese New Year. He also inquired whether government subsidies for rebuilding had been adequately provided and asked about the villagers' main sources of income. While Xi was sitting with Wang's family, Wang told him that their new house was bright and warm, and that they had everything ready for the Chinese New Year. Wang added that all the villagers felt deep gratitude toward the Party and the general secretary. Xi asked Wang if he had any other requests or wishes. Wang replied that he hoped to live a better life. With a smile, Xi said, "Your hope is our hope. The people can always count on the Party and the government."

As Xi was leaving, the villagers gathered to send their regards. Their applause and cheers echoed through the air, filling the small mountainous village with excitement. Xi told the villagers that over the past year, natural disasters struck a number of places across the country, including their village. "Our Party has placed the people first, with officials and the masses united as one, achieving significant successes in disaster relief and recovery," he said. "As the Spring Festival draws near, on behalf of the CPC Central Committee, I extend sincere regards and festive greetings to all those affected by the disaster and all those working on the frontlines of post-disaster recovery and reconstruction!"

The time-honored Dadong food market in Shenyang, the provincial capital, offered a dazzling array of distinctive festive goods. On the morning of Jan. 23, Xi arrived at the market, visiting stalls and engaging with merchants and customers to learn about the market supply during the holiday season. His presence sparked excitement, with people cheering and greeting him enthusiastically. Xi emphasized the importance of grain, vegetable and fruit supplies. He noted that, with material abundance now a reality, it is even more important to ensure that everyone has access to good and healthy food during the Chinese New Year.

Xi then visited the Chang'an residential community, which had undergone a comprehensive renovation, in Dadong District's Chang'an Subdistrict. He stopped by the home of Lang Sulan, a resident whose home has "four generations living under the same roof." Upon learning that the renovation had significantly improved living conditions with adequate services and support now in place, he expressed his affirmation of the efforts. Xi emphasized that urban renovation should be tailored to local conditions and integrated with community development, prioritizing convenience, benefits and safety for the residents. He also highlighted the importance of better care for the elderly and children.

At the community service center for Party and public affairs, some residents were busy writing Spring Festival couplets -- a traditional Chinese calligraphy art for holiday decorations, while children were crafting traditional Chinese knots that symbolize auspiciousness. Xi joined them, commending their creations and encouraging them to continue preserving and promoting fine traditional Chinese culture. Xi also enjoyed a Chinese bamboo flute ensemble performed by community retirees. "Having a good Spring Festival means a great start to the new year. A happy life for every family and a good time for the elderly and children are what we call a beautiful world. Let us strive together to make such a world even more beautiful," he told the residents.

In the community's public square, residents performed Yangge dance. Xi waved to the crowd and extended festive greetings to them.

On the afternoon of Jan. 23, Xi visited a cold rolling mill of Ansteel in the city of Benxi. At the corporate control center, he inspected the operation of the centralized intelligent system, and learned about the cold rolling process, technological innovations, and product performance at a workshop. He also met with model workers, leading young technicians, and representatives of other workers. Xi said that the manufacturing sector should keep pursuing higher-end, smarter, and more eco-friendly development, and produce more technology-intensive products with higher added value. Large state-owned enterprises like Ansteel should make more contributions to Chinese modernization.

On the morning of Jan. 24, Xi listened to reports from the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee and the provincial government. He affirmed what the province has achieved in various aspects of its work. He hoped that Liaoning would strive to break new ground for the full revitalization of the Northeast in the new era and write a Liaoning chapter of Chinese modernization.

Xi noted that, with a relatively complete industrial system, Liaoning should attach the same importance to the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries and to the cultivation and development of emerging strategic industries, speeding up modernizing its industrial system. As far as traditional industries are concerned, industrial foundation re-engineering and research on major technologies and equipment should be strengthened to constantly boost their core competitiveness. To boost emerging strategic industries, the key is to strengthen deep integration of technological and industrial innovation and develop new quality productive forces according to local conditions. The heavier the tasks of development are, the more importance the province should attach to ecological and environmental protection, so as to promote the green transition in all areas of economic and social development.

Xi stressed that reform and opening up are after all essential to the full revitalization of Northeast China. Xi urged Liaoning to focus on key issues, prioritize key areas and address difficulties in reform. He called on Liaoning to make great efforts in building law-based governance, continuously implementing the principle of unswervingly consolidating and developing the public sector and unswervingly encouraging, supporting, and guiding the development of the non-public sector, and refining the modern corporate system with distinctive Chinese characteristics. As China is opening up increasingly wider, officials at all levels should improve their capabilities of looking at problems, making policies and managing work by taking into consideration opening-up conditions.

Xi noted that Liaoning has abundant agricultural resources and a relatively solid foundation for development. It is imperative for Liaoning to further advance integrated development of urban and rural areas, push forward with urbanization that is centered on county seats, optimize the allocation of public resources and the layout of industrial chains at the county, township and village levels, and take solid steps to promote all-round rural revitalization. It is essential for Liaoning to apply the experience from the Green Rural Revival Program, find out in detail where to start with the practical work in accordance with local conditions, and then continue the endeavor with perseverance. As far as primary-level governance is concerned, specific responsibilities must be clarified for specific persons to make sure every aspect of work is done to the utmost capabilities of those involved and to the great benefit of residents.

Xi emphasized that governments at all levels bear an important responsibility to promote cultural confidence and strength, and enhance socialist cultural-ethical development. Great efforts should be made to improve cultural originality, produce more high-quality works, and further implement cultural programs for public interest. Culture should serve to enlighten people so as to rally public support, and strengthen confidence. In this way, the passion and determination of officials and the general public will be stimulated for reform, innovation, and development.

Xi pointed out that the Party's leadership must be unwaveringly upheld, and full and rigorous Party self-governance must be steadfastly exercised. The political and organizational functions of Party organizations should be strengthened, and a clean and upright political environment must be maintained. Party members and officials should be educated and guided to remain loyal, upright, and responsible. These principles must always be firmly upheld at all times. It is essential to thoroughly implement the eight-point decision on improving Party conduct along with detailed rules for its implementation, and ensure that officials at all levels take a realistic and pragmatic approach and maintain integrity and self-discipline.

Xi emphasized in the end that, with the Spring Festival approaching, Party committees and governments at all levels must conscientiously care for those in need, ensure smooth transportation during the Spring Festival travel rush, secure market supply, enrich cultural life, and strengthen production safety measures to ensure that the people enjoy a happy, peaceful, and harmonious holiday.

Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee, accompanied Xi on the inspection tour.

He Lifeng and leading officials of relevant central Party and state departments also accompanied Xi on the inspection tour. ■

Xi extends Spring Festival greetings to non-CPC personages

BEIJING, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- As the traditional Chinese New Year festival, which will usher in the Year of the Snake, is approaching, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, gathered with leaders from the central committees of non-CPC political parties and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), as well as representatives of personages without party affiliation at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on the afternoon of Jan. 20 to celebrate the festival. Xi, on behalf of the CPC Central Committee, extended festive greetings to non-CPC personages and members of the united front.

The event was also attended by Wang Huning, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Cai Qi, director of the General Office of the CPC Central Committee. Both are also members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee.

Invited participants included Zheng Jianbang, chairman of the Central Committee of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang, Ding Zhongli, chairman of the Central Committee of the China Democratic League, Hao Mingjin, chairman of the Central Committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association, Cai Dafeng, chairman of the Central Committee of the China Association for Promoting Democracy, He Wei, chairman of the Central Committee of the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party, Jiang Zuojun, chairman of the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party, Wu Weihua, chairman of the Central Committee of the Jiusan Society, Su Hui, chairperson of the Central Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, Gao Yunlong, chairman of the ACFIC, as well as Xie Xiaoliang and Xu Weigang, representatives of personages without party affiliation. Also invited were Ho Hau Wah and Leung Chun-ying, vice chairmen of the CPPCC National Committee, as well as former chairpersons, first vice chairpersons and executive vice chairpersons of the central committees of the non-CPC political parties and the ACFIC who have retired from their posts.

Cai Dafeng delivered a speech on behalf of the central committees of the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation. He said that in 2024, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core united and led the whole Party and the Chinese people of all ethnic groups in holding high the banner and forging ahead, successfully convened the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, made the major decision to further comprehensively deepen reform and advance Chinese modernization, calmly responded to challenges, and made hard-won new achievements in reform and development. In the new year, the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation will consciously align themselves with the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, focus on the central work of the Party and the country, pool wisdom and strength, offer advice on governance, and jointly write a new chapter in building a strong country and realizing the rejuvenation of the nation.

After listening to Cai Dafeng's speech, Xi gave an important address. He noted that 2024 was a year for us to overcome difficulties and forge ahead. Over the past year, the CPC Central Committee has united and led the whole Party and the people of all ethnic groups in responding calmly to changes and taking comprehensive approaches, successfully accomplishing the major objectives and tasks for economic and social development, with new solid strides made in advancing Chinese modernization. We guided all sides at all levels to correctly grasp favorable conditions and deal with unfavorable factors, maintained strategic resolve, and increased confidence in success. We effectively implemented various existing policies, stepped up efforts to introduce a package of incremental policies, and made solid efforts to promote high-quality development. As a result, China's economy recovered and showed an upward momentum and the GDP grew by 5 percent. We strengthened independent innovation and made a series of breakthroughs in the frontiers of science and technology, giving a strong boost to the development of new quality productive forces. We further deepened reform comprehensively, paid attention to the coordinated progress of various undertakings, and made solid efforts to ensure people's well-being, with the people gaining a greater sense of fulfillment. We coordinated development and security and maintained overall social stability. We have advanced major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, contributing positively to global peace, stability, and human development. We have conducted a Party discipline education campaign with a practical approach, persistently working to improve Party conduct, enforce discipline and combat corruption. As a result, continuous improvements have been seen in Party and government conduct. These achievements are attributable to the strong leadership of the CPC and the collective efforts and unity demonstrated by the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC, and personages without party affiliation.

Xi pointed out that 2024 was also a year in which fundamental principles were upheld and new ground was broken in developing multi-party cooperation. The non-CPC political parties and personages without party affiliation fully implemented the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee, focused on advancing Chinese modernization, actively put forward suggestions and strengthened democratic oversight. They played a positive role in the scientific decision-making and effective implementation of the CPC Central Committee's policies. The ACFIC helped implement the supportive policies for developing the private sector, and did a lot of work in facilitating the healthy development of the non-public sector and those working in it. Xi expressed heartfelt thanks to them all on behalf of the CPC Central Committee.

Xi stressed that 2025 marks the final year for implementing the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). He called for efforts to adhere to the general principle of pursuing progress while ensuring stability, implement more proactive and impactful macro policies, pursue high-quality development as a top priority, achieve greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development, so as to achieve the goals and tasks outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan, thus laying a solid foundation for the 15th Five-Year Plan to start on the right footing. He also called on the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation to focus on central tasks while serving the country's overall development, and make the most of their strengths, so as to more extensively rally public support, build consensus, and pool wisdom and strength.

Xi put forward three expectations for the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC, and personages without party affiliation. First, they should enhance their political awareness and strive for the greatest possible convergence of interests. They should have a thorough understanding of the leadership of the CPC as the fundamental characteristic of China's new type of political party system. They should further study the Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and focus their efforts on boosting confidence, rallying public support, improving the well-being of the people, and building consensus, to transform all positive forces from various sectors into tangible results for development. Second, they should actively contribute ideas concerning the central tasks of the Party and the country. They should conduct in-depth fact-finding missions to offer suggestions on key issues such as further deepening reform, promoting high-quality development, and drafting proposals for the 15th Five-Year Plan. They should continue to engage in democratic oversight of critical issues in the ecological and environmental protection along the Yangtze River. The ACFIC should guide private entrepreneurs in maintaining their entrepreneurial enthusiasm and boosting their confidence in development, and assist private enterprises in establishing and improving a modern corporate system with Chinese characteristics, and striving for high-quality development. Third, they should strengthen their own development and enhance their ability to fulfill responsibilities. They must strengthen political guidance, encourage and motivate their members to stay true to their original aspirations, and carry on fine traditions as sources of strength for continued progress. It is also essential for them to consolidate and deepen the results of the discipline education campaign, continue to implement the spirit of the CPC Central Committee's eight-point decision on improving conduct, and consolidate and develop a sound political ecology.

Shi Taifeng, relevant officials from the central committees of non-CPC political parties and the ACFIC, along with leading officials from related departments of the CPC Central Committee, attended the event. ■

Xi chairs meeting of Political Bureau of CPC Central Committee

BEIJING, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held a meeting on Jan. 20. The meeting reviewed a report of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee after it heard and discussed the work reports from the leading Party members groups of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate, as well as the work report of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee. Also reviewed at the meeting were opinions on comprehensively promoting ecological conservation and high-quality development in the Yellow River basin. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting.

The meeting gave full recognition to the work of the five leading Party members groups and the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee in 2024, and approved their work plans for 2025. It was agreed at the meeting that last year, the five leading Party members groups followed the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and firmly upheld the CPC Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. They strengthened their sense of mission and responsibility, diligently performed their duties, enhanced self-improvement, and earnestly fulfilled their principal responsibilities for full and rigorous Party self-governance. With such efforts, they made new contributions to building China into a strong country and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. Under the leadership of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and its Standing Committee, the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee performed its duties diligently and proactively last year. It made substantial efforts in implementing the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee, improving Party regulations, guiding the development and reform of people's organizations, and addressing unnecessary formalities to reduce burdens at the primary level.

It was emphasized at the meeting that in the year ahead, the five leading Party members groups must follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, adhere to the highest political principle of upholding the centralized, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee, and ensure unity in thinking and direction as well as full compliance with directives and prohibitions. They must foster and act on a correct understanding of what it means to perform well, make it a priority to get things done, strive for progress and excellence, and pool strength to advance reform and tackle challenges. They must steadily promote high-quality development and make new contributions on the new journey of advancing Chinese modernization on all fronts. The Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee must center on its duties, enhance political competence, prioritize the implementation of key tasks, rigorously intensify self-improvement, and accomplish with high quality all tasks assigned by the CPC Central Committee.

It was noted at the meeting that ecological conservation and high-quality development in the Yellow River basin is a matter of profound significance for the great rejuvenation and sustainable development of the Chinese nation. It is imperative to thoroughly understand the strategic intentions of the CPC Central Committee and firmly adhere to the strategic requirements of prioritizing conservation and governance. Taking further deepening reform comprehensively as a driving force, we must promote the full enforcement of the Yellow River Protection Law, respect the laws of nature, effectively manage the interconnections between water and population, food and energy, and advance the comprehensive transition to a model of green development.

The meeting highlighted the need to continue to improve the well-coordinated ecological conservation in the Yellow River basin, systemically improve water source conservation capacity in the upper reaches, strengthen water and soil conservation in the middle reaches, and promote wetland protection and ecological governance in the lower reaches. Water resources should be taken as the biggest constraint, and the potential of saving water should be explored. Relentless efforts are needed to ensure the long-term stability of the Yellow River and guarantee the safety of important dikes, reservoirs and other infrastructure. It is essential to comprehensively deepen reform and expand opening up, strengthen the synergy of the Yellow River basin's development with such regional strategies as the large-scale development of the western region and the rise of the central region, and continuously achieve new progress in high-quality development. It is a must to preserve, inherit and promote Yellow River culture, enhance the holistic and systematic protection of cultural heritage, preserve historical and cultural legacy to nourish the roots of the nation, and promote the integrated development of the culture and tourism. The Central Leading Group for Coordinated Regional Development must strengthen coordination, supervision and guidance, while relevant central government departments must intensify their support. Party committees and local governments at all levels in the provincial-level regions along the Yellow River must shoulder their principal responsibilities, resolutely put into motion the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee, and promote the implementation of key tasks and major reform measures.

Other matters were also discussed at the meeting.■

Xi chairs CPC leadership meeting to hear work reports of state and Party institutions

BEIJING, Jan. 11 (Xinhua) -- The Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held a meeting on Jan. 9 to hear work reports from the leading Party members' groups of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, the State Council, the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate, as well as a work report of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting and delivered an important speech.

It was noted at the meeting that upholding the Party's overall leadership is our greatest political strength and that upholding the centralized, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee is the fundamental reason why we have achieved continuous victories. The central Party leadership's annual hearing of work reports from the five leading Party members' groups and the work report of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee is an important institutional arrangement for upholding and strengthening the overall leadership of the Party and the centralized, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee. It has been proven through practice that this important institutional arrangement is essential for giving full play to the Party's core role of exercising overall leadership and coordinating the efforts of all sides, for ensuring that the Party's leadership is exercised in all aspects and stages of the Party and the country's cause, and for guaranteeing unity of purpose and action to forge synergy. Such an arrangement must be adhered to for a long time.

Last year, the five leading Party members' groups followed the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, resolutely upheld the authority of the CPC Central Committee and its centralized, unified leadership, and earnestly implemented the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, the meeting noted. Giving priority to solid work, the leading Party members' groups showed a stronger sense of mission and responsibility, faithfully fulfilled their duties, strengthened self-improvement, and assumed their principal responsibilities for full and rigorous Party self-governance. Consequently, they achieved new advancements in various fields and made fresh contributions to building China into a strong country and advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

According to the meeting, the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, under the leadership of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, performed its duties diligently and proactively last year. It did a lot of work in implementing the decisions and plans of the central Party leadership, improving Party regulations, guiding the development and reform of people's organizations, and addressing unnecessary formalities to reduce burdens at the primary level.

It was stressed at the meeting that 2025 is the final year for implementing the 14th Five-Year Plan and also a crucial year for further deepening reform comprehensively. The five leading Party members' groups must follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and gain a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. They must maintain political integrity, think in big-picture terms, follow the leadership core, and keep in alignment with the central Party leadership. They must strengthen their confidence in the path, theory, system and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics. They must uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the CPC Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. They must adhere to the highest political principle of upholding the centralized, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee, have a correct understanding of what it means to perform well, make it a priority to get things done, strive for progress and overcome challenges, ensure that all decisions and plans of the central Party leadership are fully implemented, and take on new responsibilities and make new achievements on the new journey of advancing Chinese modernization on all fronts.

It was stressed at the meeting that in the year ahead, the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee must focus on the plans and requirements of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, fully implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, center on its duties, enhance political competence, and prioritize the implementation of key tasks such as improving Party regulations, promoting the development and reform of people's organizations, and addressing unnecessary formalities to reduce burdens at the primary level. It must intensify self-improvement rigorously and accomplish with high quality all tasks assigned by the CPC Central Committee. ■

Xi chairs CPC leadership meeting on Xizang quake relief

BEIJING, Jan. 10 (Xinhua) -- The Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held a meeting on Jan. 9 to study and arrange quake relief in Dingri County, Xizang Autonomous Region. Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, presided over the meeting and delivered an important speech.

It was pointed out at the meeting that, since the 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck Dingri County, Xizang Autonomous Region, under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, local authorities and relevant departments have responded swiftly and organized rescue and relief work effectively. Party members, officials, and the general public have united in their efforts, with rescue teams including the national comprehensive fire and rescue team, the People's Liberation Army, the Armed Police Force, and state-owned enterprises playing a critical role.

Despite the challenges posed by high-altitude, freezing temperatures and low oxygen levels, these forces raced against time to search for survivors, minimize casualties, and ensure the overall smooth progress of relief efforts.

It was stressed at the meeting that the earthquake disaster relief work is now at a critical stage and there must be no slackening. It is a must to do more detailed work to resolutely win the tough battle against this disaster. Continued efforts should be made for rescue and post-quake recovery. Medical experts should be organized to provide medical consultations and treat the injured with all-out efforts. Wholehearted work must be done to ensure the basic living conditions of the affected residents, make good arrangements for their temporary and transitional-period settlement, and ensure they stay warm in the winter.

Post-disaster recovery and reconstruction must be sped up. Efforts should be dedicated to the repair of infrastructure, and the clearing of debris to swiftly restore production and daily life order in the earthquake-stricken areas. Solid work must be done to maintain social stability, promptly investigate and resolve arising conflicts or disputes, and make public authoritative information. Additionally, efforts should be made to strengthen the earthquake resistance of buildings and infrastructure and disaster response capabilities in key areas, as well as to ensure preparation for emergency.

Local Party committees and governments were required to earnestly shoulder their political responsibilities, according to the meeting. All relevant parties should closely cooperate, officials at all levels should stay at their posts at the frontline and go all out to perform their duties, and primary-level Party organizations and all Party members should play an exemplary and vanguard role.

Other matters were also discussed at the meeting. ■ 

Xi stresses winning tough, protracted, all-around battle against corruption

BEIJING, Jan. 9 (Xinhua) -- On the morning of Jan. 6, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president, and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech at the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI). He emphasized that unprecedented efforts have been made to advance full and rigorous Party self-governance and promote the fight against corruption since the beginning of the new era, yielding widely recognized results. It is essential to remain steadfast in the ongoing fight against corruption and to maintain strategic resolve and a tough stance. We must press forward without pause or compromise, coordinate efforts to ensure that officials do not have the audacity, opportunity or desire to become corrupt, and resolutely win this tough, protracted and all-around battle.

Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi and Ding Xuexiang, all members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting. Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and secretary of the CCDI, presided over the meeting.

Xi pointed out that in 2024, the CPC Central Committee continued to use the Party's self-reform to steer social transformation and persevered with full and rigorous self-governance, securing new progress and achievements. The entire Party has gained a clearer understanding and stronger resolve in action regarding the crucial issue of self-reform. Party discipline education has been thoroughly implemented, greatly raising awareness of rules and discipline among all Party members. Efforts to combat corruption have been intensified to eradicate the breeding grounds and conditions for corruption. Concrete actions have been taken to address misconduct and corruption at the primary level, resolving many of the most pressing issues that cause grave public concerns. Additionally, the deepening efforts to run the Party based on its systems and regulations have further strengthened the Party's capacity to lead the fight against corruption and advance full and rigorous Party self-governance.

Xi emphasized that corruption is the greatest threat to the Party, and combating corruption represents the most thorough kind of self-reform. Entering the new era and confronted with prominent issues in improving conduct, upholding integrity and fighting corruption within the Party, we have remained committed to investigating and addressing all corruption cases to preserve the integrity of officials. By doing so, we have burnished the Party's image, consolidated the socialist foundation, gained the historical initiative to ensure that the Party remains true to its nature, conviction and character, and also secured the historical initiative for the Party to unite and lead all the people in the pursuit of building a strong nation and achieving national rejuvenation.

Xi said the current anti-corruption situation remains grave and complex. The backlog of corruption has not yet been eradicated, and new cases continue to arise. The task of eliminating the breeding grounds and conditions for corruption remains arduous. To understand the fight against corruption, we must have a historical perspective and strategic vision, and focus on the Party's mission and tasks. We must remain steadfast in combating corruption. Any hesitation, laxity or abandonment will lead to catastrophic mistakes. We must resolutely dispel all misconceptions, clear away ideological confusion, and further strengthen our determination and confidence in the fight against corruption.

Xi emphasized that on the new journey of the new era, we must uphold the spirit of reform and exercise strict Party self-governance to strive for greater results. This will ensure the implementation of the decisions made at the 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, ensure that the Party is always the firm leadership core guiding the cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and guarantee the steady and long-term advancement of Chinese modernization.

Xi pointed out that we should conduct concrete, targeted and regular political oversight. It is essential to closely follow the CPC Central Committee with firm actions. Ideologically, we must persistently strengthen efforts to equip members with the Party's new theories. This will enable them to accurately grasp the CPC Central Committee's goals and requirements for reform and development in their respective regions, departments and fields, and will ensure unity in thinking and action. Politically, it is a must to uphold the centralized, unified leadership of the CPC Central Committee, enforce strict political discipline and rules, and never allow the seven types of misconduct, so as to match our deeds with words and fully comply with the CPC Central Committee's directives and prohibitions. In action, it is imperative to take the implementation of the decisions and arrangements of the CPC Central Committee as the focus of political oversight, thereby jointly pressing ahead with critical reform tasks and promoting high-quality development.

Xi stressed that strengthening Party discipline is a regular practice, and it is necessary to guide Party members and officials to transform Party discipline into self-discipline and internalize it into an everyday code of words and deeds. Efforts are needed to build a regular and long-term discipline education mechanism so that discipline education lasts throughout the whole cycle of officials' growth and integrates into the entire process of organizational management. It is also necessary to strictly implement Party discipline, accurately exercise four forms of oversight over discipline compliance, seek truth from facts, protect the innocent while holding wrongdoers accountable, identify problems early and correct them while they are nascent. Thus, we can enforce strict management and supervision while encouraging officials to take on responsibilities, and enable them to engage in reform and innovation and show great enterprise in compliance with the rules and discipline.

Xi pointed out that it is necessary to further investigate and address instances of both misconduct and corruption. It is a must to always show zero tolerance for malpractices, strictly implement the central Party leadership's eight-point decision on improving conduct, rigidly investigate and punish those who intentionally violate Party discipline, and address the more hidden problems of pointless formalities, bureaucratism, hedonism and extravagance. We must urge Party members and officials to resolutely oppose privilege-seeking mindsets and practices and to develop a firm and correct attitude toward power, performance evaluation and our cause. It is necessary to always maintain a tough stance against corruption, focus on and investigate key issues, areas and targets, investigate those who take bribes and also those who offer them, and resolutely eliminate the hidden risks of institutional corruption. Cases should be studied and used to promote rectification and improve governance, and efforts must be made to improve the mechanisms for regulating and supervising the allocation and exercise of power and increase the effective methods for combating new types and disguised forms of corruption. It is necessary to improve conduct and enforce discipline while combating corruption, investigate and severely punish those involved in misconduct intertwined with corruption, and eradicate the common root causes of both misconduct and corruption.

Xi emphasized the need to ensure that principal and oversight responsibilities for full and rigorous Party self-governance are assumed. Party committees must take the initiative in oversight and management, while disciplinary inspection commissions should fulfill their specialized supervisory duties, focusing on their core responsibilities and fulfilling their primary tasks. All responsible entities must be aware of, shoulder and fulfill their respective responsibilities. The mechanism for evaluating the fulfillment of responsibilities should be optimized, and work must be done to ensure accurate and well-founded accountability for those who fail to perform their duties and responsibilities.

Xi pointed out the need to continuously extend full and rigorous Party self-governance to the grassroots level. Party committees at all levels, especially those at the city and county levels, must make it a regular task to address misconduct and corruption that occur at people's doorsteps, ensuring tangible and perceptible results for the public. We should deepen reforms in grassroots supervision systems and mechanisms, integrating disciplinary inspection and supervision with inspections at the grassroots level and with other forms of oversight. Long-term mechanisms for rectifying pointless formalities to reduce burdens at the grassroots level should be implemented to enable primary-level officials to concentrate more on delivering results.

Xi emphasized that disciplinary inspection and supervision bodies are a vital force in advancing the Party's self-reform, and the Party and the people have full trust in and high expectations for this team. We should deepen the reform of the disciplinary inspection and supervision system, judiciously integrating the delegation of power with oversight to confine power to an institutional cage. It is necessary to ensure that disciplinary inspection and supervision work is carried out in a more standardized, law-based and professional manner, and to continuously enhance the ability to improve conduct, enforce discipline and combat corruption. We must consolidate and expand the achievements of theoretical study programs and education, adhere to the principle that it takes a good blacksmith to forge good steel, and strengthen strict management and oversight to build a loyal, clean and responsible disciplinary inspection and supervision team that has the courage and capability to engage in struggle.

Presiding over the meeting, Li Xi said that General Secretary Xi's important speech fully recognized the new progress and achievements in advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance over the past year. With a farsighted historical perspective, the speech showed a profound understanding of the fundamental principles governing the anti-corruption campaign and deeply analyzed the current anti-corruption situation. It outlined clear requirements for resolutely winning this tough, protracted and all-around battle against corruption, and presented a strategic plan for further advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance. The visionary speech is profound in thought, direct in addressing problems, and highly enlightening, providing important guidance for promoting full and rigorous Party self-governance and for combating corruption. We must thoroughly study and implement the guiding principles of General Secretary Xi's speech, and gain a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. It is necessary to be more conscious of the need to maintain political integrity, think in big-picture terms, follow the leadership core, and keep in alignment with the central Party leadership; to strengthen confidence in the path, theory, system and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics; and to uphold General Secretary Xi Jinping's core position on the CPC Central Committee and in the Party as a whole, and uphold the CPC Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. We must strengthen confidence, have the courage to fight, fulfill the political responsibility of full and rigorous Party self-governance, advance the coordinated efforts to ensure that officials do not have the audacity, opportunity or desire to become corrupt, and unwaveringly push the fight against corruption to a deeper level.

Members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, members of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, relevant leaders of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, state councilors, president of the Supreme People's Court, procurator-general of the Supreme People's Procuratorate, relevant leaders of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and members of the Central Military Commission attended the meeting.

Members of the CCDI, leading officials of central Party and government departments as well as people's organizations, and leading officials of relevant units in the military also participated in the meeting. The meeting was held via video and telephone, with sub-venues set up in various provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities directly under the central government, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, and relevant military units.

The fourth plenary session of the 20th CCDI opened in Beijing on Jan. 6. The Standing Committee of the CCDI presided over the session. On the afternoon of Jan. 6, Li Xi, on behalf of the Standing Committee of the CCDI, delivered a work report titled "Further Promoting Efforts to Improve Party Conduct, Uphold Integrity and Combat Corruption, Providing Strong Guarantee for Advancing Chinese Modernization Through New Achievements in Full and Rigorous Party Self-Governance."■

CPPCC National Committee holds gathering to ring in new year, Xi Jinping delivers important speech

BEIJING, Jan. 2 (Xinhua) -- The National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) held a New Year gathering in its auditorium in Beijing on the morning of Dec. 31, 2024. Party and state leaders Xi Jinping, Li Qiang, Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi and Han Zheng attended the gathering to ring in the year 2025. Also present at the gathering were leading officials of China's non-Communist parties' central committees and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC), representatives of personages without party affiliation, leading officials of central Party and state departments, and individuals from various ethnic groups and all walks of life in Beijing.

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech. He stressed that on the journey of Chinese modernization, we will not only enjoy clear skies and gentle breezes, but also encounter high winds, heavy rains, and even dangerous storms. We must maintain strategic resolve, pool the powerful collective force of all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation striving in unity to brave winds and waves, and advance the great cause of building a strong country and realizing the national rejuvenation.

On behalf of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council and the Central Military Commission, Xi extended New Year greetings to the non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation, to the Chinese people of all ethnic groups, to compatriots in the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions and Taiwan, and overseas Chinese, and to friends from all over the world who have shown understanding and support for China's modernization drive.

Xi pointed out that 2024 was a crucial year for achieving the objectives and tasks laid down in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025). Over the past year, in the face of challenges posed by evolving dynamics at home and abroad, we responded calmly with a full range of steps to successfully accomplish the main targets and tasks of economic and social development for the year, and took new solid strides in advancing Chinese modernization. Our development in the past year has been extraordinary, and the achievements are encouraging. They have strengthened our resolve and confidence in advancing Chinese modernization.

Xi stressed that over the past year, the CPPCC has earnestly implemented the decisions and plans of the CPC Central Committee, performed its duties closely in line with the central tasks, strengthened self-improvement, and made new contributions to the development of the cause of the Party and the country.

Xi pointed out that 2025 will see the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan. We shall adhere to the general principle of pursuing progress while maintaining stability, fully and faithfully implement the new development philosophy on all fronts, accelerate the building of a new development paradigm, firmly promote high-quality development, further deepen reform comprehensively, and expand high-standard opening up. We shall better ensure both development and security, implement more proactive and impactful macro policies, promote sustained economic recovery and improvement, continuously improve people's livelihood, maintain social harmony and stability, fulfill the goals and tasks of the 14th Five-Year Plan with high quality, and lay a solid foundation for getting the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) off to a good start, he said.

Xi emphasized that the CPPCC must ensure the integration of Party leadership, the united front and consultative democracy. He urged that the CPPCC should focus on central tasks while serving the country's overall development, and fully leverage its role as a specialized consultative body. It should also strengthen ideological and political guidance, actively offer suggestions and proposals, garner broader public support, build consensus, draw on collective wisdom and pool strengths.

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the CPPCC, presided over the gathering. He pointed out that it is imperative to earnestly study and implement the guiding principles of General Secretary Xi's important speech, unswervingly uphold the Party's overall leadership, have a good command of the nature of the CPPCC, focus on the central tasks, serve the country's overall development, and build the CPPCC's capacity for performing its duties in the spirit of reform and innovation. He also called for efforts to strive in unity with greater confidence, pool collective wisdom and strength for achieving China's economic and social development goals and tasks in 2025 in an all-round manner, and work tirelessly to build China into a strong country and advance national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization.

Hao Mingjin, chairman of the Central Committee of the China National Democratic Construction Association, delivered a speech on behalf of the central committees of all non-CPC political parties, the ACFIC and personages without party affiliation. He expressed their commitment to rallying more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, working together with unity and dedication, and unwaveringly striving toward the great goals of building a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation.

At the gathering, Xi and other leaders met with representatives from various sectors, shaking hands and exchanging warm greetings. Members of the CPPCC National Committee and literary and art workers presented wonderful performances. The gathering concluded with a collective singing of the song "Unity is Strength." The hall was filled with a joyous and harmonious festive atmosphere.

Among those attending the gathering were members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and members of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee who were in Beijing; some leaders from the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and the State Council; and leaders and former vice chairpersons of the CPPCC National Committee who were in Beijing. ■

Full text of President Xi Jinping's 2025 New Year message

BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- On New Year's eve, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered his 2025 New Year message through China Media Group and the Internet. The following is the full text of the message:

Greetings to everybody! Time flies fast, and the new year will be with us shortly. I extend my best wishes to you all from Beijing.

In 2024, we have together journeyed through the four seasons. Together, we have experienced winds and rains and seen rainbows. Those touching and unforgettable moments have been like still frames showing how extraordinary a year we have had.

We have proactively responded to the impacts of the changing environment at home and abroad. We have adopted a full range of policies to make solid gains in pursuing high-quality development. China's economy has rebounded and is on an upward trajectory, with its GDP for the year expected to pass the 130 trillion yuan mark. Grain output has surpassed 700 million tons, and China's bowls are now filled with more Chinese grain. Coordinated development across regions has gained stronger momentum, and mutually reinforcing advances have been made in both new urbanization and rural revitalization. Green and low-carbon development has been further enhanced. Indeed, a more beautiful China is unfolding before us.

We have fostered new quality productive forces in light of actual conditions. New business sectors, forms and models have kept emerging. For the first time, China has produced more than 10 million new energy vehicles in a year. Breakthroughs have been made in integrated circuit, artificial intelligence, quantum communications and many other fields. Also for the first time, the Chang'e-6 lunar probe collected samples from the far side of the moon. The Mengxiang drilling vessel explored the mystery of the deep ocean. The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link now connects the two cities across the sea. The Antarctic Qinling Station is now in operation on the frozen continent. All this epitomizes the lofty spirit and dreams of the Chinese people to explore stars and oceans.

This year, I have visited many places across the country and seen how our people enjoy their enriching lives. I saw the big, red Huaniu apples in Tianshui, Gansu and the fishing boats in Aojiao Village, Fujian loaded with their catches. I watched the millenium-old "Eastern Smile" in the Maiji Mountain Grottoes, and I learned more about good-neighborliness passed from generation to generation in Liuchixiang Alley. I enjoyed the hustle and bustle in Tianjin's Ancient Culture Street, and I saw how the people in Yinchuan's mixed-ethnic residential communities live together as one family. The concerns of the people about jobs and incomes, elderly and child care, education and medical services are always on my mind. This year, basic pension has been raised, and mortgage rates have dropped. Cross-province direct settlement of medical bills has been expanded, making it easier for people to seek medical treatment across the country. And consumer goods trade-in programs have improved people's lives... All these are real benefits to our people.

In the Paris Olympics, Chinese athletes raced to the top and achieved their best performance in Olympic Games held overseas, fully demonstrating the vigor and confidence of young Chinese. The PLA Navy and Air Force celebrated their 75th birthdays, and our servicemen and women are full of drive. When floods, typhoons and other natural disasters struck, members of the Communist Party of China and officials stepped forward to lead disaster relief efforts, and our people were of one mind and reached out to each other. People in all fields -- workers, builders and entrepreneurs, among others -- are working hard to fulfill their dreams. I presented awards to recipients of national medals and honorary titles. The honor belongs to them; it also belongs to every hard-working person who has lived up to their responsibilities.

In a world of both transformation and turbulence, China, as a responsible major country, is actively promoting global governance reform and deepening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South. We are making deeper and more substantive advances in high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. The Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation was a full success. We put forward China's vision at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, BRICS, APEC, G20 and other bilateral and multilateral forums. We have contributed greatly to the maintenance of world peace and stability.

We celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of New China. With deep affection, we looked back at the sea change that has taken place across China since the birth of the People's Republic. Nurtured by our 5,000-plus years of continuous civilization, our country, China, is engraved not only on the bottom of the ancient bronze ritual wine vessel of He Zun, but also in the heart of every Chinese. At its Third Plenary Session, the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China sounded a clarion call for further deepening all-round reform. We will march forward in great strides to advance reform and opening up as the trend of our times. We will surely embrace even broader prospects in pursuing Chinese modernization in the course of reform and opening up.

In 2025, we will fully complete the 14th Five-Year Plan. We will implement more proactive and effective policies, pursue high-quality development as a top priority, promote greater self-reliance and strength in science and technology, and maintain sound momentum in economic and social development. The Chinese economy now faces some new conditions, including challenges of uncertainties in the external environment and pressure of transformation from old growth drivers into new ones. But we can prevail with our hard work. As always, we grow in the wind and rain, and we get stronger through hard times. We must be confident.

Of all the jobs in front of us, the most important is to ensure a happy life for our people. Every family hopes that their children can have a good education, their seniors can enjoy good elderly services, and their youngsters can have more and better opportunities. These simple wishes are our people's aspirations for a better life. We should work together to steadily improve social undertakings and governance, build a harmonious and inclusive atmosphere, and settle real issues, big or small, for our people. We must bring more smiles to our people and greater warmth to their hearts.

On the eve of the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland, I visited the city again, and I was gratified to see the new progress and changes there. We will unswervingly implement the policy of One Country, Two Systems to maintain long-term prosperity and stability in Hong Kong and Macao. We Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one and the same family. No one can ever sever the bond of kinship between us, and no one can ever stop China's reunification, a trend of the times.

As changes unseen in a century accelerate across the world, it is important to rise above estrangement and conflict with a broad vision, and care for the future of humanity with great passion. 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. We must jointly create a better future for the world.

Dreams and wishes may be far, but they can be fulfilled with dedicated pursuit. On the new journey of Chinese modernization, everyone is a key actor, every effort counts, and every ray of light shines.

Splendor adorns our motherland, and starlight graces every home. Let us greet the new year with hope. May our great country enjoy harmony and prosperity! May all your dreams come true! May you all have a new year of happiness and peace! ■

CPC leadership convenes criticism and self-criticism meeting

BEIJING, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held a criticism and self-criticism meeting from Thursday to Friday to thoroughly study and implement Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. The meeting focused on consolidating and building on the achievements of the Party discipline education campaign, and comprehensively leveraging the role of Party discipline in education and constraint, as well as in providing guarantees and incentives. Examining the efforts in studying and implementing the Party's regulations on disciplinary action and enforcing the central Party leadership's eight-point decision on improving conduct was an important aspect for the review. The meeting also included conducting self-examinations, analyzing Party consciousness, and carrying out criticism and self-criticism, in light of personal thoughts and actual work.

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, chaired the meeting and delivered an important speech.

Thorough preparations were made before the meeting. Members of the Political Bureau had discussions with leading officials of relevant departments, listened to their opinions and suggestions and thereby prepared speech outlines. Reports were presented on how the Political Bureau has implemented the central Party leadership's eight-point decision on improving conduct in 2024, as well as on the progress made in reducing burdens on grassroots levels by combating pointless formalities throughout the year. Members of the Political Bureau spoke one by one. Focusing on the theme of the meeting, they conducted a thorough self-examination and deep analysis in accordance with the Regulations on CPC Disciplinary Action, the Regulations of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee on Strengthening and Upholding the Centralized and Unified Leadership of the CPC Central Committee, and the Detailed Rules of the Political Bureau for Enforcing the CPC Central Committee's Eight-Point Decision on Conduct. The atmosphere was serious yet lively, with serious self-examination, in-depth analysis and open and frank discussions. The meeting had achieved the desired effects.

Members of the Political Bureau focused on five key areas. First, they have become firmer in upholding the Party Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership. Second, they have strengthened their commitment to serving and bringing benefit to the people. Third, they have grown more resolute in implementing the decisions and plans made by the Party Central Committee. Fourth, they have become more determined to lead in studying, understanding and observing Party discipline. Fifth, they have become firmer in fulfilling their political responsibilities of exercising strict governance over the Party.

It was noted at the meeting that since the beginning of 2024, in the face of challenges emerging both in and outside China, the Party Central Committee has united and led the entire Party and people of all ethnic groups in responding with calm and comprehensive measures, and achieved the major goals and tasks set for economic and social development, marking solid progress in advancing Chinese modernization. Notably, robust and effective measures were taken to safeguard the people's wellbeing and maintain social stability. New progress was made in advancing socialist democracy and rule of law, breaking new ground in major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics, and deepening full and rigorous Party self-governance. These accomplishments did not come easily.

Members of the Political Bureau unanimously believed that the centralized, unified leadership of the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core is a fundamental guarantee for success across all areas, and it ensures that the ship of Chinese modernization navigates through winds and waves, sailing steadily into the future. The entire Party must gain a deep understanding of the decisive significance of establishing Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and establishing the guiding role of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, become more conscious of the need to maintain political integrity, think in big-picture terms, follow the leadership core, and keep in alignment with the central Party leadership, stay confident in the path, theory, system, and culture of socialism with Chinese characteristics, uphold Comrade Xi Jinping's core position on the Party Central Committee and in the Party as a whole and uphold the Party Central Committee's authority and its centralized, unified leadership, and resolutely implement the policies and plans of the Party Central Committee. The coming year marks the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan. It is imperative to follow the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, thoroughly implement the guiding principles of the 20th CPC National Congress and the second and third plenary sessions of the 20th CPC Central Committee, adhere to the general principle of seeking progress while maintaining stability, fully and faithfully applied the new development philosophy on all fronts, and accelerate the creation of a new development pattern. Efforts need to be made to achieve tangible progress in high-quality development, deepen reform comprehensively, expand high-standard opening up, and drive constant economic recovery and growth. It is crucial to improve the lives of the people, maintain social harmony and stability, and firmly exercise full and rigorous Party self-governance. The Party must achieve the goals and tasks outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan, thus laying a solid foundation for a good start to the 15th Five-Year Plan.

Xi commented on the self-examination of the members of the Political Bureau, put forward requirements, and delivered a concluding speech. He noted that this criticism and self-criticism meeting had been successful, achieving its objectives of facilitating the exchange of thoughts, identifying problems, and clarifying the way forward. The process would be helpful for the Political Bureau to enhance unity, improve work and shoulder the Party's founding mission.

Xi stressed that the Party discipline education campaign has effectively addressed issues that some Party members and officials are either indifferent to, lack knowledge of, or have failed to master Party rules and discipline. It has pushed Party organizations at all levels and their leadership teams to rigorously tighten Party discipline, while motivating Party members and officials to commit themselves to being loyal, clean and responsible, thus achieving remarkable progress. Party members and officials have shown a heightened awareness of discipline, rules, integrity and self-discipline, along with a renewed motivation to take on responsibilities and forge ahead in their undertakings. The principle, measures and atmosphere have become even more stringent. Efforts to combat pointless formalities have proved effective in reducing burdens at grassroots levels.

Xi stressed that sound, robust Party consciousness leads to a deeper awareness of observing Party discipline. Leading officials should regard enhancing their Party consciousness and theoretical consciousness as a lifelong endeavor, continuously learning and improving throughout their lives. It is essential to prioritize political integrity in their efforts to enhance Party consciousness, draw inspiration from the Party's new theories, and view the study, observance and implementation of the Party Constitution, rules and discipline as a key means. Members of the Political Bureau should continue to hold themselves to rigorous standards befitting Marxist statesmen and take the lead in studying the Party's new theories, exercising democratic centralism, practicing criticism and self-criticism, strictly observing Party discipline and rules, and carrying forward the Party's fine traditions and conduct. They must ensure that they remain rock-solid in their ideals and convictions, stay loyal to the Party with body and soul, and selflessly dedicate themselves to the cause of the Party and the people.

Xi noted that Party discipline functions as an educational and constraining force, and it also provides guarantees and incentives. It conforms with efforts to advance undertakings, as discipline not only clarifies the line that must not be crossed but also offers guidelines that enable Party members and officials to work with integrity and courage. By observing discipline, one will enjoy ample freedom and a broad space to advance initiatives. Members of the Political Bureau are expected to lead by example, becoming models in observing rules and discipline, as well as in advancing their work. They are also expected to set a clear orientation and support and encourage those who dare to take on responsibilities and act, fostering a dynamic environment where everyone is enterprising and strives for excellence.

Xi stressed that Party discipline delineates the boundaries for the proper exercise of power and establishes no-go zones to prevent its abuse. It serves as safety barriers, helping Party members and officials maintain clean and honest. Holding discipline in reverence and observing it grant Party members immunity from erosion. As long as the breeding grounds and conditions for corruption still exist, the fight will continue. Xi emphasized the importance of remaining exceptionally clear-headed about the fight against corruption and maintain an exceptionally resolute stance, with no room for complacency or leniency. With a heavy responsibility on their shoulders, members of the Political Bureau should apply stricter requirements to themselves, exercising greater prudence in the use of the power entrusted to them. They must effectively improve Party conduct and uphold integrity in the domains they oversee or in the provinces or regions they hold leadership posts, take decisive actions to address misconduct and corruption in any form, and strengthen the education and discipline of their family members and staff.

Xi emphasized that strictly observing and safeguarding Party discipline are shared responsibilities of all Party members. Party committees (and leading Party members groups) at all levels must assume their principal responsibilities. Secretaries of Party organizations serve as chief responsible persons, while other leadership members take on "one position, two responsibilities." With each level overseeing the one directly beneath it, the Party can ensure consistent progress in tightening discipline. Members of the Political Bureau must earnestly shoulder their political responsibilities in this aspect, stay fully informed about the developments in the domains they oversee or in the provinces or regions they hold leadership posts, and tackle issues with courage, resolve and rigor. It is their duty to lead, implement and promote efforts to tighten Party discipline.

Finally, Xi emphasized that the tasks of advancing reform and development and maintaining stability are expected to be onerous in the coming year, urging leading officials at all levels to stay engaged with the people and their communities, conduct in-depth research to identify pressing concerns and prominent issues, and address them with targeted measures. ■