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People perform traditional loong dancing on the Bund during sunrise in Shanghai, east China, January 1, 2024. /CFP People perform traditional loong dancing on the Bund during sunrise in Shanghai, east China, January 1, 2024. /CFP
Editor's note: Ruqiya Anwar, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a PhD scholar of Media and Communication Studies in Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.
As the world welcomed the dawn of 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a profound New Year message from his office in Beijing. In a nationally televised and live-streamed speech, President Xi highlighted the urgency to relentlessly progress Chinese modernization, secure a better living for the people, and strive to make the world a better place for all in the coming year.
Reflecting on the past year's events and accomplishments, Xi described 2023 as a year in which China "marched forward with solid steps." The Chinese people demonstrated resilience, unity, and the ability to overcome challenges in the face of adversity, leaving an everlasting mark on the nation's journey. President Xi expressed his sincere admiration for ordinary Chinese citizens who "made an extraordinary contribution" to prevailing over difficulties, proving to be the country's backbone in times of adversity.
Xi underlined the diverse challenges that faced certain companies, job seekers, and natural disaster-affected regions in 2023. Despite these obstacles, he commended the Chinese people for their outstanding capacity to band together, support one another, and collectively overcome hardships. He put it this way: "When I see people rising to the occasion, reaching out to each other in adversity, meeting challenges head-on, and overcoming difficulties, I am deeply moved."
In 2023, the Chinese economy experienced a smooth transition in COVID-19 response measures, maintaining momentum in economic recovery, gained in pursuing high-quality growth, upgrading the industrial system, and establishing sophisticated, smart, and environmentally friendly industries. China celebrated its 20th consecutive year of abundant crops, cleaner waterways, greener mountains, and advances in rural revitalization.
Success stories unfolded across China's different regions. The revitalization of northeast China, the rapid growth of the Xiong'an New Area, the vitality of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, and the development potential in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area all demonstrated the nation's energy. Despite the hurdles, the Chinese economy proved resilient, emerging stronger than ever.
The commercial service entry of the C919 passenger airliners, successful trials of a Chinese-built large cruise ship, and the deep-sea manned submersible Fendouzhe reaching the deepest ocean trench were all noteworthy milestones. Chinese items, notably trendy brands and the most recent models of mobile phones, have received global acclaim, emphasizing the country's industrial capabilities.
Notably, China's success extended beyond the economic sphere, echoed in sports and cultural events. Chinese athletes performed at international tournaments such as the Chengdu Summer World University Games and the Hangzhou Asian Games, demonstrating the country's prowess on the world stage. Vibrant cultural events, such as the hugely popular "village super league" football games and "village spring festival gala," provided color and richness to the lives of the Chinese people.
The Chengdu Summer World University Games kicks off at Dong'an Lake Sports Park in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, July 28, 2023. /CFP The Chengdu Summer World University Games kicks off at Dong'an Lake Sports Park in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province, July 28, 2023. /CFP
Reflecting on China's rich civilization, President Xi Jinping emphasized the country's time-honored history and magnificent culture. Recognizing China's status as a major country, diplomatic interactions, and hosting global events represented the fulfilment of international responsibilities.
Looking ahead to 2024, the 75th anniversary of the People's Republic of China's founding, the emphasis remains on fostering modernization, attaining high-quality development with an eye towards progress and security.
Among the aims are deepening reforms, fostering economic vibrancy, and promoting long-term prosperity and stability in places such as Hong Kong and Macao Special Administrative Regions. The prospects of reunification were expressed with confidence, as China aspired to a common sense of purpose and shared glory for the Chinese on both sides of the Taiwan Straits.
The ultimate goal continues to provide a better life for people by focusing on vital aspects such as healthcare, education, and opportunities for people of all ages. Fostering a warm and harmonious atmosphere in society, extending the environment for innovation, and establishing good living conditions emerged as communal aims.
China emphasizes its recognition of global concerns and commitment to working with the international community for the common good of mankind, to contribute to a shared future and to make the world a better place for all.
As the journey to 2024 begins, China's ambition for progress, development, and global cooperation sets the tone for a year focused on innovation, sustainability, and collaborative endeavors. The world watches with interest as China continues on its path, constructively contributing to humanity's collective destiny and solving global challenges with resolve and cooperation.
(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at opinions@cgtn.com. Follow @thouse_opinions on Twitter to discover the latest commentaries in the CGTN Opinion Section.)
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