On January 27, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech at the 2025 Spring Festival gathering. He began by extending his best wishes on behalf of the CPC Central Committee and the State Council to all citizens, compatriots in the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese.
2024: A Year of Progress Amid Challenges
Xi emphasized that the past year, the Year of the Dragon, was marked by the Chinese people’s determination to overcome difficulties and achieve significant progress. Despite complex global conditions, China promoted economic recovery and took solid steps in advancing Chinese-style modernization.
He highlighted that China remained focused on high-quality development by implementing policies to boost economic growth. The country made notable achievements in technological and industrial innovation, regional development, and rural-urban integration. Xi reiterated that China continues to be a key driver of global economic growth.
He also noted progress in various areas, including democratic governance, the rule of law, cultural and ecological development, national defense, and military modernization. In 2024, China grandly celebrated the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic and held the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee to deepen reforms.
Xi underlined the government’s commitment to social welfare, maintaining employment and price stability, and expanding achievements in poverty alleviation. He also praised China’s disaster response efforts, particularly the efficient earthquake relief operations in Tibet’s high-altitude regions.
Regarding Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, Xi reaffirmed China’s ongoing efforts and noted the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to the motherland. He also expressed pride in Chinese athletes, who achieved their best-ever overseas performance at the Paris Olympics, bringing immense joy to the Chinese people worldwide.
2025: A Year of Reform and Development
Xi Jinping stated that 2025 marks the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan and emphasized the need to maintain high-quality development, deepen reforms, and expand high-level opening-up. He announced that China would formulate the 15th Five-Year Plan as part of its continued pursuit of long-term strategic goals. He reiterated the government’s people-centered governance approach, stressing the importance of responding effectively to public needs and ensuring that modernization achievements benefit all citizens more equitably.
A Message of Hope for the New Year
Xi noted that in Chinese culture, the snake symbolizes wisdom, vitality, and prosperity. He encouraged all Chinese people to move forward with resilience and confidence, opening a new chapter in Chinese-style modernization.
He concluded his speech by wishing everyone good health, happiness, and success in the Year of the Snake.