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Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the importance of supporting the elderly and youth in his new year address, acknowledging the challenges faced by some of China’s 1.4 billion population.
In his televised speech, Xi highlighted the need to address issues such as employment, income growth, elderly care, childcare, education, and healthcare. He also mentioned the Chinese Communist party’s focus on deepening reform to improve people’s quality of life.
Xi’s speech comes at a time when China’s economy has been facing challenges, including slow growth, rising unemployment among the youth, and deflationary pressures. Despite these challenges, Xi highlighted China’s progress in technological self-reliance and emphasized the importance of stoking domestic demand.
The World Bank recently revised its forecast for China’s GDP growth next year, reflecting some positive changes in the country’s economic outlook. However, China has also faced social issues, including mass killings and stabbings, which have raised concerns about social stability.
Xi also reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan, emphasizing the country’s sovereignty over the island. He mentioned the importance of national reunification and warned against any attempts to sever ties between the two sides.
Overall, Xi’s address touched on various key points related to China’s economy, social issues, and international relations. It remains to be seen how the country will navigate these challenges in the coming year.
As China continues to face economic and social challenges, it will be crucial for the country to implement effective policies to address these issues and ensure stability and growth in the coming year.
Additional reporting by Wenjie Ding in Beijing, Cheng Leng in Hong Kong and Kathrin Hille in Taipei