Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered his traditional New Year's speech at the turn of the year, in which he assessed the past year 2025 and outlined China's direction for the coming period. In his speech from Beijing, he emphasised the country's economic achievements, technological progress, cultural confidence and ambitions on a global scale.
Year of completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan
Xi Jinping described 2025 as an exceptionally important year – it was the last year of the 14th Five-Year Plan. According to him, China faced a number of difficulties during those five years, but managed to overcome them and achieve stable progress on the path to Chinese-style modernisation.
According to estimates, gross domestic product is expected to reach 140 trillion yuan in 2025, setting a new historical record. The president highlighted the strengthening of the country's economic, scientific, technological and defence capabilities, as well as improvements in the environment and social security for the population.
„This five-year progress is extraordinary, and the success has been achieved through hard work.“ He paid tribute to all citizens who contributed to the country's development.
Historical memory and national revival
The President devoted a significant part of his speech to commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War against Japanese Aggression and the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. He also mentioned the newly established anniversary of Taiwan's liberation from Japanese occupation.
According to Xi Jinping, these events are of fundamental importance for preserving historical memory, honouring fallen heroes and strengthening the determination to protect peace. These values are to be the spiritual force behind the grand rebirth of the Chinese nation.
Innovation as a driver of development
The president repeatedly emphasised the key role of innovation. According to him, China has made significant progress in the fields of artificial intelligence, chip manufacturing and space research. He recalled the launch of the Tianwen 2 probe mission, the start of construction of the Yaxia hydroelectric power plant and the commissioning of the first electromagnetic aircraft carrier Fujian.
According to him, technological development is not only evident in industry, but also in everyday life – from robotics to drone shows. Innovation thus creates new productive power and a more colourful way of life.
Cultural self-confidence and living traditions
Xi Jinping pointed to the growing interest in Chinese culture, museums and intangible cultural heritage. According to him, the global popularity of characters such as Sun Wukong and Nezha and the return of traditional aesthetics among the younger generation prove the strength of Chinese civilisation.
The cultural and tourism sectors are booming, sporting competitions are revitalising cities and rural areas, and winter sports are becoming a symbol of new vitality. The combination of tradition and modernity is making Chinese culture more visible than ever before.
A better life for ordinary people
The president devoted a significant part of his speech to social issues. He mentioned strengthening the protection of the rights of newly employed groups, adapting public spaces for senior citizens, and providing financial support to families with children in the amount of 300 yuan per month.
„No matter concerning people's lives is small.“ he emphasised. According to him, the key to the prosperity of the entire country is the contentment of individual families.
Open China and global responsibility
Xi Jinping recalled the hosting of international summits, the launch of closed-port free trade operations on Hainan Island, and China's new climate commitments. He emphasised the initiative for global governance, which aims to create a more just and rational world order.
In times of global conflict, according to him, China is positioning itself on „the right side of history“ and is prepared to cooperate with other states in promoting peace and development.
One country, two systems and reunification
The President also touched upon the issues of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. He reaffirmed his commitment to the „one country, two systems“ principle and emphasised that, in his view, the historical trend towards national reunification is unstoppable.
Outlook to 2026
Xi Jinping designated 2026 as the year of the launch of the 15th Five-Year Plan. He called for consolidating goals, strengthening confidence, deepening reforms, and continuing high-quality development.
He concluded with a figurative call for perseverance and courage: the road is long, but China, in his view, is moving forward with a firm step.
„The New Year's sun will soon rise,“ He concluded his speech by wishing prosperity for his country and the fulfilment of all its inhabitants' wishes.
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