Summary: In his 2026 New Year's address, Xi Jinping celebrated China's achievements during the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, highlighting economic growth, technological advancements, and improved living standards. He emphasized the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of victory in the War of Resistance against Japan, including the establishment of Taiwan Retrocession Day. Xi reiterated the commitment to "One Country, Two Systems" for Hong Kong and Macau and asserted that reunification with Taiwan is inevitable. He also mentioned China's commitment to world peace and development, promoting a community of common destiny, as well as the country's efforts to address climate change and advance global governance. There was no mention of the United States.
Summary: On the 70th anniversary of the PLA Daily, Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter emphasizing the newspaper's role in promoting Party ideology, reflecting military development, and contributing to the PLA's growth. He urged the PLA Daily to adhere to Party leadership, maintain correct political direction, innovate its approach to military communication, and support military modernization. At a celebration in Beijing, Central Military Commission Vice Chairman Zhang Shengmin conveyed Xi's message, emphasizing the importance of upholding the "Two Establishments" and the CMC chairman responsibility system. The PLA Daily, the official newspaper of the Central Military Commission, has evolved into an all-media platform.
Summary: In their New Year's greetings, Presidents Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin both commemorated the 80th anniversary of victories in WWII, celebrated advancements in bilateral relations including visa-free travel and energy projects, and pledged mutual support within multilateral organizations like the UN. Xi noted his two meetings with Putin in 2025 in Beijing and Moscow, and looked forward to the upcoming "China-Russia Education Year" and the 30th anniversary of the strategic partnership. Putin similarly highlighted deepened economic cooperation and major project advancements, also mentioning two meetings with Xi. Premier Li Qiang and Russian Prime Minister Mishustin also exchanged greetings, affirming the deepening of the strategic partnership under the leaders' guidance. The messages suggest continued close cooperation and strategic alignment between China and Russia on global governance, without explicit mention of the United States.
Summary: At a New Year's tea party held by the CPPCC, Xi Jinping delivered a speech emphasizing the achievements of 2025 and outlining goals for the upcoming "15th Five-Year Plan" (2026-2030), including high-quality development and economic growth. He called for unity and effort towards building a modern socialist country. Wang Huning, presiding over the event, stressed the importance of the CPPCC in contributing to these goals. Cai Dafeng of the China Association for Promoting Democracy pledged support for the leadership of the CCP with Xi at its core. Xi extended New Year's greetings to people in Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
Summary: In a speech marking the new year, the speaker, representing the CPC Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, extended greetings and reviewed China's achievements in 2025, including an estimated 5% economic growth and advancements in technological innovation. The speaker highlighted the successful conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and outlined priorities for 2026, the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan, emphasizing high-quality development and economic stability. The speaker also mentioned effectively responding to external risks and challenges and resolutely safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests. The speaker called for unity and hard work to advance Chinese-style modernization.
Summary: An upcoming issue of *Qiushi* magazine will publish Xi Jinping's article on studying and implementing the spirit of the 20th Fourth Plenary Session of the CPC Central Committee. The article emphasizes the significance of the "15th Five-Year Plan" (2026-2030) for China's modernization, stressing the need to grasp the complex domestic and international environment and concentrate on China's own affairs. It outlines key tasks including high-quality development, building a new development pattern, promoting common prosperity, and balancing development and security. The article also underscores the importance of strengthening Party leadership and self-revolution to ensure effective governance and combat corruption. The article does not mention the United States or U.S.-China relations.
Summary: In his New Year's address, Xi Jinping lauded the achievements of the past five years, including the completion of the 14th Five-Year Plan and advancements in Chinese-style modernization. He emphasized the resilience of the Chinese economy, progress in technological innovation, and improvements in people's livelihoods. Xi stressed the importance of self-reliance and focusing on domestic affairs amid global uncertainties. The address highlighted the spirit of hard work, innovation, and the collective effort of the Chinese people in building a prosperous nation.
Summary: Premier Li Qiang chaired a State Council executive meeting focused on domestic issues, including national water network construction, cross-border trade facilitation, and revisions to regulations on water supply and drug management. The meeting emphasized the importance of optimizing water resource allocation and expanding domestic demand through water network projects. To promote cross-border trade, the council called for efficient logistics, development of new trade models, and enhanced smart regulation. The meeting also stressed the need to guarantee drug safety and promote innovation in the pharmaceutical industry.
Summary: Speaking on behalf of the central committees of various democratic parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and personages without party affiliation, the speaker extended respect to the CCP and blessings to the people. The speaker lauded the CCP Central Committee, with Xi Jinping at its core, for leading the nation through complex international situations and achieving significant progress, including the successful Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. The speaker highlighted the advancements in multi-party cooperation and pledged to further strengthen unity around the CCP to contribute to socialist modernization and national rejuvenation. The address made no mention of the United States or U.S.-China relations.
Summary: Propaganda teams across Jilin, Jiangxi, Yunnan, and Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps have been dispatched to disseminate the spirit of the 20th Fourth Plenary Session of the Party. These teams are engaging in diverse activities ranging from enterprise workshops to rural fields, universities, and community squares. Jilin province held training sessions for grassroots propagandists, focusing on tailored and interactive communication. In Jiangxi, teams are translating policy into relatable terms for rural communities. Yunnan utilizes local cultural elements, such as the spirit of the Southwest Associated University and AI explainers, to connect with the population.
Summary: The General Office of the State Council has issued the "Assessment Measures for Implementing the Rigid Water Resources Constraint System" to promote water conservation and ensure water resources effectively support high-quality development. The measures outline the process for assessing provincial governments' performance in meeting water resource management goals, including water conservation, protection, and regulatory measures. The annual assessment will evaluate target completion, implementation of water-saving measures, and regulatory oversight. Results will be categorized into four levels, with outstanding performers considered for commendation and failing grades requiring rectification and potential disciplinary action. The measures aim to control water resource development within sustainable limits and will be used as a key performance indicator for provincial leaders.
Summary: The State Council has announced personnel changes, including the appointment of Yang Jin as Vice Minister of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Lin Zechang as Vice Minister of Finance, and Li Xinghu as Vice Minister of Transport. Additionally, Zhan Hao was appointed as Vice Director of the National Natural Science Foundation, and Zhang Yong as Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong. Bianba Zhaxi was removed from his position as Vice Minister of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Yu Huiwen was removed from his position as Vice Minister of Ecology and Environment, Fu Xuyin was removed from his position as Vice Minister of Transport, and Qi Bin was removed from his position as Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong. The article does not discuss the United States or U.S.-China relations.
Summary: In his 2026 New Year's address, Xi Jinping lauded the achievements of the past five years and called for continued efforts in the new year. The report highlighted several individuals and their contributions to China's development, including Cong Wenfeng, a professor dedicated to increasing grain production, and An Yongguo, a member of the *Fujian* aircraft carrier crew. Wang Xingxing, founder of a robotics company, was inspired by Xi's remarks on innovation, while Qu Feng discussed the preservation of cultural relics at the Palace Museum. Finally, Wang Cheng, working at the Hainan International Ship Registry, is focused on attracting more international ships to Hainan Free Trade Port.
Summary: This article compiles reactions from various individuals across China to Xi Jinping's New Year address. Key themes highlighted in the responses include ecological protection and national park development, innovation in manufacturing (specifically mentioning automation and indigenous technology in the Looyang bearing factory), and community building initiatives centered on ethnic unity. Several respondents cited the importance of improvements to people's livelihoods. Finally, one respondent who works with the China-ASEAN information port highlighted Xi’s statement about “embracing the world” and China's continued opening up of the economy to the world.
Summary: This article provides publication information, crediting Yin Xinyu, Jiang Xuejie, and Lü Li as the coordinators. Cai Huawei and Zhang Fangman are credited for the layout design. Zhang Shixuan and Gong Han are credited for media creation. The article does not contain any information on Chinese politics, statements by officials, or U.S.-China relations.
Summary: This article reflects on China's achievements in 2025, highlighting an estimated economic output of 140 trillion yuan, advancements in technological innovation, and the promotion of high-level opening-up, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Tianjin Summit. It emphasizes overcoming risks and maintaining strategic initiative by focusing on the domestic economy and expanding internal demand. The piece looks forward to 2026 as the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan, stressing the importance of maintaining stability, promoting development, and achieving socialist modernization. The article also alludes to external challenges, advocating for the protection of China's interests while contributing positively to global governance. It ends with a call for unity around the CCP Central Committee with Xi Jinping at its core.
Summary: In his 2026 New Year's address, Xi Jinping reviewed the achievements of the 14th Five-Year Plan, inspiring overseas Chinese to contribute to the 15th Five-Year Plan and China's modernization. Overseas Chinese leaders highlighted China's commitment to multilateralism and building a community with a shared future, offering opportunities to countries like Thailand. They also noted China's economic stability amidst global uncertainty and its advancements in areas like AI and green energy, fostering cooperation with countries like Germany. The address emphasized China's continued openness to the world, promoting cooperation and global governance, while also highlighting the upcoming APEC meetings in China. Some overseas Chinese leaders pledged to facilitate collaboration between China and their host countries, contributing to China's development and international partnerships.
Summary: In his 2026 New Year's address, Xi Jinping celebrated the achievements of the 14th Five-Year Plan, highlighting China's economic growth, technological advancements, and improved living standards. He emphasized the importance of innovation, cultural development, and continued efforts to address climate change. Xi reiterated China's commitment to "One Country, Two Systems" for Hong Kong and Macau, and asserted that reunification with Taiwan is inevitable. He also stated that China stands on the right side of history, and wants to promote world peace and development with other countries. There was no mention of the United States.
Summary: In a phone call with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China-South Korea relations are improving under the guidance of both countries' leaders and welcomed President Lee Jae-myung's upcoming visit to China. Wang Yi also urged South Korea to take a responsible stance on historical issues, referencing the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan and alluding to Japanese attempts to revise history. He also requested South Korea to adhere to the One China Principle on the Taiwan issue. Cho Hyun affirmed President Lee's commitment to developing the strategic partnership and reiterated South Korea's respect for the One China Principle.
Summary: Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Li Xi announced the successful completion of "Joint Sword-2025" exercises. The exercises comprehensively tested the integrated joint combat capabilities of the troops. Li Xi stated the Eastern Theater Command remains on high alert and will continue to strengthen military training. The Command is prepared to resolutely thwart "Taiwan independence" separatism and external interference. The Command is determined to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Summary: A ceremony was held to release outstanding sports-related cultural works, co-organized by multiple state entities including the Central Propaganda Department's Bureau of Civilization Cultivation and the General Administration of Sport's Publicity Department. Over 100 guests attended, including officials from the Central Spiritual Civilization Construction Office, the General Administration of Sport, and the People's Daily. The event recognized 120 outstanding works selected from over 8,000 submissions to the sports public service advertisement and Chinese sports story collection campaign, which launched in June 2023. Noteworthy selected works included a promotional video on the spirit of Chinese sports, and a bilingual docuseries on Chinese Kung Fu.
Summary: Foreign Ministry Spokesperson announced that Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will visit China from January 3rd to 5th, 2026, at the invitation of Chinese Politburo Member and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The visit will include the 7th China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue.
Summary: Various regions, including Jilin, Jiangxi, Yunnan, and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, have been conducting grassroots outreach to disseminate the spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee. These efforts involve diverse methods, such as theoretical training, group discussions, and on-site teaching, tailored to local contexts and demographics. In Jilin, examples include lectures at Jilin University and targeted sessions for senior citizens, while Jiangxi utilized "Old Squad Leader" teams to connect policy with everyday concerns. Yunnan incorporated local culture and technology like AI avatars to enhance engagement, and Xinjiang focused on community governance and engaging students with the Plenary Session's themes. The goal is to ensure the spirit of the meeting takes root at the grassroots level.
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Summary: An article discusses China's efforts to combat noise pollution, highlighting improvements in urban sound quality and increased coordination among government departments. Lu Lu, Deputy Director of the Noise Management Division of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, noted that while progress has been made, noise pollution remains a significant issue, with social noise accounting for over 70% of complaints. The government plans to launch a "15th Five-Year Plan" to further address noise pollution, focusing on source management and prevention, as well as revisions to noise standards. The article quoted a British journalist from the Financial Times as remarking on the reduction of city noise in China.
Summary: Please provide the article you would like me to summarize. I need the text of the article to provide an accurate and concise summary for professional analysts of Chinese politics.
Summary: The article highlights cultural initiatives marking the beginning of China's "15th Five-Year Plan" period. It describes a children's choir in Shanxi province, supported by a retired musician from Beijing, performing patriotic songs. Furthermore, the article covers the performance of traditional opera in Zhejiang province, emphasizing the troupe's efforts to incorporate local dialects and themes. The article also discusses a museum in Hubei showcasing ancient chime-bell music, with musicians incorporating modern elements and technology.
Summary: During the New Year and Spring Festival period, various cultural performances are being held across China. Beijing will feature traditional and modern Peking opera, as well as the Beijing New Year Concert. Shanghai's New Year Concert, led by Yu Long, will highlight young artists. Guangzhou will host European musical performances, including the German musical "Elisabeth."
Summary: Please provide the article you would like me to summarize. I need the text of the article to produce the summary.
Summary: Fujian Tulou, earthen buildings in southeastern Fujian, showcase traditional Chinese architectural techniques and communal living. These structures, often round or square, were built for defense and to foster close-knit communities. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, the Tulou embody a harmony between people and nature. The buildings’ unique designs vary by location, with coastal Tulou featuring stronger materials to withstand sea winds, while mountain Tulou utilize local resources. Modern preservation efforts, including digital scanning and renovation projects, aim to sustain the Tulou's architectural legacy and cultural significance.
Summary: The article discusses the "Shu" (數) bamboo manuscript, a collection of mathematical notes discovered at the Yuelu Academy in Hunan province, dating back to the Qin Dynasty. This manuscript provides insights into Qin-era mathematics education and the role of mathematics within the ancient Chinese knowledge system. The content includes practical applications of arithmetic, unit conversions, engineering calculations, and problem-solving techniques, potentially serving as a textbook for students or government officials responsible for measurement, taxation, storage, and engineering. The article emphasizes that "Shu" served not only as a tool but also as a means to implement order and governance within the state.
Summary: This article explains the origins and meanings behind alternative names for common Chinese vegetables. Yam is known as "Yu Yan" (玉延) due to its jade-like appearance when peeled. Other vegetables, like cabbage, beans, lotus root, radish, and bitter melon, have historical and poetic alternative names reflecting their characteristics and cultural significance. For example, bitter melon is referred to as "Junzi Cai" (君子菜), or gentleman's vegetable, because it does not transfer its bitterness to other foods when cooked together. The article does not discuss the United States or U.S.-China relations.
Summary: This article describes the history, preparation, and cultural significance of "Nuanguo," a traditional hot pot dish in Qingyang, Gansu. It details the specific ingredients, cooking methods, and the importance of layering the ingredients within the pot. Nuanguo represents family reunions and wishes for a prosperous future, offering warmth and comfort during the cold winter months. There is no mention of the United States or U.S.-China relations in this article.
Summary: Please provide the article you would like me to summarize. I need the text of the article to be able to give you a summary suitable for professional analysts of Chinese politics.
Summary: This article is a collection of essays from various authors looking forward to 2026. Xu Guangyao, a writer, reflects on his 81 years of writing, stressing the importance of portraying real people and their lives in literature, and also emphasizes the need to inherit and carry forward the spirit of the Long March to promote socialist modernization. Xie Mian expresses joy at entering his 95th year, advocating for "human love and world peace." Li Hongbing discusses engaging with students and elderly academics. Tang Keyang contemplates the impact of AI on architecture, while Jia Zhangke discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the film industry with the rise of AI and short videos, highlighting the importance of both learning new technologies and preserving the unique qualities of cinema. The U.S. is not mentioned.
Summary: This short text only provides an email address and design credit for a page in the People's Daily. It does not contain any information about Chinese politics, official statements, or U.S.-China relations. Therefore, a summary is not possible.
The year 2025 marks the concluding year of the "14th Five-Year Plan." Over the past five years, we have strived forward with determination and courage, overcoming numerous difficulties and challenges, successfully completing our goals and tasks, and taking steady steps on the new journey of Chinese-style modernization. China's total economic output has continuously crossed new thresholds, and is expected to reach 140 trillion yuan this year. Our economic strength, scientific and technological strength, defense strength, and overall national strength have reached new levels. Lush mountains and clear waters have become a beautiful backdrop, and the people's sense of gain, happiness, and security has continuously increased. The past five years have been extraordinary, and the achievements have not come easily. Everyone has worked hard, forged ahead, and dedicated themselves, creating a thriving China. I pay tribute to every hard-working individual!
What is unforgettable this year is that we solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and established Taiwan Retrocession Day. The grand national ceremony was majestic and powerful, and the glory of victory will be forever recorded in history, inspiring all Chinese sons and daughters to remember history, cherish the memory of martyrs, cherish peace, and create the future, and uniting the mighty force of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
We rely on innovation to empower high-quality development. The deep integration of science and technology with industry, innovative achievements are emerging in a competitive manner, artificial intelligence large models are catching up with each other, and new breakthroughs have been made in independent research and development of chips. China has become one of the fastest-growing economies in terms of innovation. Tianwen-2 (天问二号) has started its "star-chasing" journey, the Ya Xia (雅下) hydropower project has started construction, and the first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier has officially entered service. Humanoid robots show off their "Kung Fu mode," and drones perform dazzling "fireworks." Innovation and creation have spawned new quality productive forces and made life more colorful.
We nourish our spiritual home with culture. The enthusiasm for museums and intangible cultural heritage continues to rise, new members have been added to the list of world heritage sites, Wukong (悟空) and Nezha (哪吒) have swept the globe, and ancient Chinese styles have become the "top aesthetic" in the eyes of young people. The cultural and tourism market is booming, "City Super" ("城超") and "Village Super" ("村超") are lively and extraordinary, and ice and snow sports ignite winter passion. The integration of tradition and modernity makes Chinese culture shine even more brilliantly.
We jointly create and share a better life. I attended celebrations in Tibet (西藏) and Xinjiang (新疆). From the snowy plateau to the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains (天山), people of all ethnic groups are closely linked, hugging each other like pomegranate seeds. Everyone uses white hadas and enthusiastic songs and dances to express their love for the motherland and their praise for happiness. People's livelihood is no small matter, and every detail is important. In the past year, the rights and interests of new employment groups have been further guaranteed, age-friendly renovations have brought convenience to the elderly, and families with children have received an additional 300 yuan subsidy per month. The daily necessities of life, three meals a day, and the four seasons, every "small family" is full of vitality, and the "big family" of China is thriving.
We continue to open our hearts to embrace the world. The SCO Tianjin Summit (上合组织天津峰会) and the Global Women's Summit (全球妇女峰会) were successfully held, and the Hainan Free Trade Port (海南自贸港) is operating with full island closure. To better address climate change, China has announced a new round of nationally determined contributions. Following the "Three Major Initiatives," I put forward the Global Governance Initiative to promote the construction of a more just and reasonable global governance system. Today's world is intertwined with changes and chaos, and some regions are still shrouded in war. China always stands on the right side of history and is willing to work with all countries to promote world peace and development and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Not long ago, I attended the opening ceremony of the National Games (全运会). The concerted efforts of Guangdong (粤), Hong Kong (港), and Macao (澳) are gratifying. We must unswervingly implement the "One Country, Two Systems" policy, support Hong Kong (香港) and Macao (澳门) to better integrate into the overall development of the country, and maintain long-term prosperity and stability. Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are connected by blood, and the historical trend of national reunification is unstoppable!
The Party's prosperity leads to national strength. We have carried out in-depth study and education on implementing the spirit of the Central Eight-Point Regulation (中央八项规定), established credibility by moving a tree, strictly governed the Party and administered the country, removed corruption and promoted self-revolution, and the Party's conduct and government conduct have continued to improve. We must strengthen our original aspirations and missions, persevere and make sustained efforts, continue to answer the "cave dwelling question" of Yan'an (延安“窑洞之问”), and write an era answer worthy of the people.
The year 2026 marks the opening year of the "15th Five-Year Plan." Those who start with determination must plan for the end, and those who succeed must first plan for the beginning. We must anchor our goals and tasks, strengthen our confidence, take advantage of the momentum, and vigorously promote high-quality development, further comprehensively deepen reform and opening up, promote common prosperity for all the people, and continue to write new chapters in the Chinese miracle.
Dreaming of mountains and seas, we do not feel the distance; the road ahead is long, and we stride forward. Let us show the courage to whip the horse and spur it on, stimulate the vitality of ten thousand horses galloping, maintain the energy of never stopping, and work together for our dreams and for happiness, and turn grand visions into beautiful realities.
The rising sun of the New Year is about to rise. I wish our motherland magnificent mountains and rivers, abundant land, and the Divine Land bathed in the morning glow! I wish everyone happiness in their hearts, success in their careers, and everything can be expected!
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st (Reporter Mei Changwei) On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Daily, Xi Jinping (习近平), General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, President of the State, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, sent a congratulatory letter, extending warm congratulations to all comrades of the newspaper on behalf of the Party Central Committee and the Central Military Commission.
Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his congratulatory letter that over the past 70 years, the PLA Daily has always adhered to the Party's leadership, held high the Party's banner, actively publicized the Party's theories, guidelines, policies, vividly reflected the construction and reform of the military and the practice of preparing for war, and made important contributions in promoting the fine traditions of our Party and our army, cultivating generations of revolutionary soldiers, and helping the People's Army to develop and grow stronger.
Xi Jinping (习近平) emphasized that the PLA Daily should firmly remember its mission and responsibility to be loyal to the Party and serve the military, implement the requirements of running a newspaper by politicians, grasp the correct political direction and public opinion guidance, grasp the laws of modern news communication, strengthen its awareness of its position, adhere to seeking truth and being pragmatic, actively maintain integrity and innovate, promote the construction of a more effective modern military communication system, better play the leading role of propaganda and the leading role of public opinion, better reach the hearts of officers and soldiers, tell the story of strengthening the army, and serve military training and preparation for war, so as to gather strong forces for promoting the modernization of national defense and the military with high quality.
The celebration of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Daily was held in Beijing (北京) on the 31st. Zhang Shengmin (张升民), Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission, read Xi Jinping's (习近平) congratulatory letter at the meeting. He pointed out that it is necessary to conscientiously study and implement the spirit of President Xi's (习近平) important instructions, profoundly understand the decisive significance of the "two establishments," resolutely achieve the "two safeguards," implement the chairman responsibility system of the Central Military Commission, unswervingly use Xi Jinping's (习近平) Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era to strengthen the soul, and unswervingly disseminate the voice of the Party Central Committee and the Central Military Commission, so as to provide strong ideological and public opinion support for promoting the cause of strengthening the army.
The PLA Daily is the organ newspaper of the Central Military Commission, founded on January 1, 1956. In February 2018, the PLA Daily and other major military news media were merged to form the PLA News Communication Center, which has now developed into a full-media platform that brings together newspapers, magazines, radio, television, websites, books and other carriers, and has 91 new media release terminals such as "China Military Number (中国军号)," covering a total of 360 million users.
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st. On December 31, 2025, President Xi Jinping (习近平) and Russian President Vladimir Putin (普京) exchanged New Year's congratulatory messages.
Xi Jinping (习近平), on behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese people, extended sincere congratulations and best wishes to President Putin (普京) and the Russian people. Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out that 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. China and Russia solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the Soviet Great Patriotic War, also known as World Anti-Fascist War, sending a strong message of the inevitable victory of peace, the inevitable victory of justice, and the inevitable victory of the people. 2025 is also a year in which the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era has taken solid steps. We met twice in Beijing (北京) and Moscow (莫斯科), exchanging in-depth views on major issues of common concern. The mutual visa exemption policy between China and Russia has been implemented, the construction of energy channels has been steadily advanced, and cooperation in emerging fields is booming. The two countries support each other within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral frameworks, contributing wisdom and strength to reforming and improving global governance.
Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out that 2026 marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the signing of the "China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation." The two countries will hold the "China-Russia Year of Education" in 2026-2027. I am willing to continue to maintain close exchanges with President Putin (普京) and jointly lead the China-Russia relationship in the new era to achieve new results.
President Putin (普京) extended his heartfelt holiday greetings to President Xi Jinping (习近平), wishing the Chinese people happiness and good health. Putin (普京) said that in the past year, the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era has maintained a good momentum of development and achieved fruitful results. I met with President Xi Jinping (习近平) twice, jointly commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory against German Nazism and Japanese militarism, and reached a series of important consensus. Russia and China actively expand economic and trade cooperation, and major cooperation projects are steadily advancing. The two countries have achieved mutual visa exemption, which has greatly promoted personnel exchanges between the two sides. Next year, the two countries will jointly launch the "Russia-China Year of Education." I am willing to continue to maintain close contact with President Xi Jinping (习近平) on bilateral relations and major international issues.
On the same day, Premier of the State Council Li Qiang (李强) and Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin (米舒斯京) exchanged New Year's congratulatory messages. Li Qiang (李强) said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era has been further deepened and solidified. China is willing to work with Russia to fully implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and promote more fruitful practical cooperation between the two sides. Mishustin (米舒斯京) said that the two governments have created favorable conditions for the implementation of promising cooperation projects, and he believes that the new year will bring new opportunities for the comprehensive implementation of the strategic deployment of the two heads of state.
Return to TopThe Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (中国人民政治协商会议) National Committee held a New Year tea party in the National Committee of the CPPCC Auditorium (全国政协礼堂) on the morning of December 31st in Beijing (北京). Party and state leaders Xi Jinping (习近平), Li Qiang (李强), Zhao Leji (赵乐际), Wang Huning (王沪宁), Cai Qi (蔡奇), Ding Xuexiang (丁薛祥), Li Xi (李希), Han Zheng (韩正), and others gathered with the heads of various democratic parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (全国工商联), representatives of personages without party affiliation, responsible persons from relevant departments of central and state organs, and representatives from all ethnic groups and sectors of the capital to celebrate the New Year's Day of 2026.
Xi Jinping (习近平), General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, President of the State, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, delivered an important speech. (The full text of the speech is on the second page.) He emphasized that the blueprint has been drawn, and it is the right time to forge ahead. The whole Party, the whole country, and all ethnic groups should unite more closely, be of one mind, and forge ahead with determination, achieve great undertakings with solid work, win the future with innovation, and constantly create a new situation in the construction of Chinese-style modernization.
On behalf of the CPC Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, Xi Jinping (习近平) extended New Year's greetings to the various democratic parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (全国工商联), personages without party affiliation, the people of all ethnic groups across the country, Hong Kong (香港) compatriots, Macao (澳门) compatriots, Taiwan (台湾) compatriots, overseas Chinese, and friends from all countries who care about and support China's modernization construction!
Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out that 2025 was a very extraordinary year. We overcame difficulties and worked hard to successfully complete the main goals of economic and social development, and accomplished many major tasks. China's economy moved forward against pressure, developed towards new and better directions, demonstrating strong resilience and vitality. New steps were taken in reform and opening up, people's livelihood was more effectively guaranteed, and the overall social situation remained stable. After five years of hard work, the "14th Five-Year Plan" (十四五) came to a successful conclusion, and China's economic strength, scientific and technological strength, national defense strength, and comprehensive national strength reached a new level. In our hard work, we have further enhanced our ambition, backbone, and confidence, and we are more determined and confident in promoting the construction of a strong country and realizing the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Xi Jinping (习近平) emphasized that over the past year, the CPPCC has conscientiously implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, focused on consolidating the common ideological and political foundation for unity and struggle, and offered advice and suggestions on further comprehensively deepening reform and promoting high-quality development, making new contributions to the development of the Party and the country.
Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out that 2026 is the opening year of the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五). We must fully, accurately, and comprehensively implement the new development concept, accelerate the construction of a new development pattern, focus on promoting high-quality development, adhere to the general tone of seeking progress while maintaining stability, implement more proactive and effective macro policies, promote the effective improvement of economic quality and the reasonable growth of quantity, maintain social harmony and stability, and strive to achieve a good start for the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五).
Xi Jinping (习近平) emphasized that the CPPCC should closely focus on the central tasks of the Party and the country, focus on the formulation and implementation of the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五), conduct in-depth consultation and deliberation, actively offer advice and suggestions, carry out democratic supervision, and widely gather people's hearts, consensus, wisdom, and strength for promoting Chinese-style modernization.
The tea party was presided over by Wang Huning (王沪宁), member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Chairman of the National Committee of the CPPCC. He pointed out that it is necessary to conscientiously study and implement the spirit of General Secretary Xi Jinping's (习近平) important speech, unswervingly adhere to the overall leadership of the Communist Party of China, firmly grasp the nature and positioning of the CPPCC, focus on performing duties and responsibilities around the central tasks of the Party and the country, give full play to the role of the CPPCC as a specialized consultative body, work together with one heart and one mind, pool the wisdom and efforts of everyone, widely gather strength for a good start and a good step for the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五), and strive unremittingly to basically realize socialist modernization.
Cai Dafeng (蔡达峰), Chairman of the Central Committee of the China Association for Promoting Democracy (民进中央), spoke on behalf of the central committees of various democratic parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (全国工商联), and personages without party affiliation, stating that they will unite more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping (习近平) at its core, continuously strengthen self-construction, better serve the overall development situation, and contribute wisdom and strength to comprehensively promoting the construction of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation with Chinese-style modernization.
Literary and art workers performed wonderful programs on the spot. Finally, the audience stood up and sang "Unity is Strength" (团结就是力量). The venue was filled with a festive and peaceful atmosphere.
Members of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee in Beijing (北京), some leading comrades of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and the State Council, leading comrades of the National Committee of the CPPCC, and veteran comrades in Beijing (北京) who had served as vice chairmen of the National Committee of the CPPCC attended the tea party.
Return to TopBy: 习近平
Comrades and friends,
Hello everyone! I am very happy to gather with you to talk about friendship, discuss state affairs, and jointly welcome the new year.
First of all, on behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (中共中央), the State Council (国务院), and the Central Military Commission (中央军委), I would like to extend my best wishes to the democratic parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (工商联), personages without party affiliation, people of all ethnic groups across the country, Hong Kong (香港) compatriots, Macao (澳门) compatriots, Taiwan (台湾) compatriots and overseas Chinese, and friends from all countries who care about and support China's modernization!
The year 2025 was a very extraordinary year. We faced difficulties head-on and worked hard to successfully complete the main goals of economic and social development. China's economy moved forward against pressure, developing in new and better directions, demonstrating strong resilience and vitality. The growth rate is expected to reach about 5%, continuing to rank among the top major economies in the world, and the total volume is expected to reach about 140 trillion yuan. Fruitful results have been achieved in scientific and technological innovation, the construction of a modern industrial system has been continuously promoted, and new quality productive forces have steadily developed. New steps have been taken in reform and opening up, people's livelihoods have been more effectively guaranteed, and the overall social situation has remained stable.
Over the past year, we have handled many major events. The Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee was held, and the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五规划) proposal was adopted; in-depth study and education on thoroughly implementing the spirit of the Central Eight-Point Regulation (中央八项规定) was carried out, and efforts were made to rectify conduct, enforce discipline, and combat corruption without letup; the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War was solemnly commemorated, and the Taiwan Retrocession Day (台湾光复纪念日) was established to remember history, cherish the memory of martyrs, cherish peace, and create the future; the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Tibet Autonomous Region (西藏自治区) and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区) were celebrated to promote the construction of the Chinese national community; the 15th National Games were successfully co-hosted in Guangdong (粤), Hong Kong (港), and Macao (澳), supporting Hong Kong and Macao to better integrate into and serve the overall national development; external risks and challenges were effectively responded to, and national sovereignty, security, and development interests were resolutely safeguarded; global governance initiatives were proposed, injecting more positive energy into the world intertwined with changes and chaos.
After five years of hard work, the "14th Five-Year Plan" (十四五) has come to a successful conclusion. China's economic strength, scientific and technological strength, defense strength, and comprehensive national strength have reached new levels, and Chinese-style modernization has taken new and solid steps. In our hard work, we have further enhanced our ambition, backbone, and confidence, and have become more determined and confident in promoting the construction of a strong country and realizing the rejuvenation of the nation.
Comrades and friends!
Over the past year, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (人民政协) has conscientiously implemented the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, focused on consolidating the common ideological and political foundation for unity and struggle, and closely centered on further comprehensively deepening reform and promoting high-quality development to offer advice and suggestions, making new contributions to the development of the Party and the country.
Comrades and friends!
The year 2026 is the first year of the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五). The CPC Central Committee has already made arrangements for the year's economic and social development and other tasks. We must fully, accurately, and comprehensively implement the new development concept, accelerate the construction of a new development pattern, focus on promoting high-quality development, adhere to the general tone of seeking progress while maintaining stability, implement more proactive and effective macroeconomic policies, promote the effective improvement of the quality and the reasonable growth of the quantity of the economy, maintain social harmony and stability, and strive to achieve a good start to the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五).
The CPPCC (人民政协) should closely focus on the central tasks of the Party and the country, focus on the formulation and implementation of the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五规划) to conduct in-depth consultation and deliberation, actively offer advice and suggestions, carry out democratic supervision, and widely gather people's hearts, build consensus, gather wisdom, and gather strength for promoting Chinese-style modernization.
Comrades and friends!
The blueprint has been drawn, and it is the right time to forge ahead. The whole Party, the whole country, and people of all ethnic groups should unite more closely, be of one mind, forge ahead, achieve great undertakings with hard work, win the future with innovation, and constantly create new prospects for the construction of Chinese-style modernization.
Thank you all!
(Xinhua News Agency (新华社), Beijing (北京), December 31)
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st. The first issue of the "Qiushi" magazine, to be published on January 1, 2026, will feature an important article by Xi Jinping (习近平), General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, President of the People's Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, titled "Study and Implement the Spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee."
The article points out that the "Recommendations" adopted by the Plenary Session, based on consolidating the foundation and making comprehensive efforts, deploy strategic tasks concerning the overall situation of Chinese-style modernization during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period, and are a programmatic document guiding economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. Studying and implementing the spirit of the Plenary Session is a major political task for the entire Party and the entire country in the current and future periods.
The article points out that it is necessary to deeply study and comprehend the spirit of the Plenary Session. Organize the study, explanation, and publicity of the spirit of the Plenary Session through various means, so that the entire Party and the entire society can understand the spirit of the Plenary Session. First, deeply understand the great significance of economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. In the process of basically realizing socialist modernization, the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period has an important position of building on the past and opening up the future. Grasping the economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period is of great and far-reaching significance for realizing the grand blueprint drawn by the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, promoting Chinese-style modernization in stages and steps, and laying a more solid foundation for basically realizing socialist modernization. Second, deeply understand the Party Central Committee's basic judgment on the domestic and international situation. The "Recommendations" deeply analyze the complex environment facing China's development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period, and conclude that China's development is in a period where strategic opportunities and risks and challenges coexist, and uncertain and unpredictable factors are increasing, emphasizing concentrating efforts on managing our own affairs well, and proposing goals, tasks, and major measures accordingly. The entire Party must unify its thinking and actions with the Party Central Committee's basic judgment and major decisions and deployments. Third, deeply understand the guiding ideology and major principles of economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. The guiding ideology and the "six persistences" principles determined by the "Recommendations" are a scientific summary of the experience of economic and social development since the reform and opening up, especially in the new era, and are a major achievement of our Party's continuous deepening of the understanding of the laws of economic and social development, providing a basic guideline for economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. Fourth, deeply understand the major strategic tasks of economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. The "Recommendations" deploy strategic tasks that have major traction, driving, and supporting roles in promoting Chinese-style modernization. It is necessary to deeply understand and grasp them, and effectively implement the decision-making intentions, goal requirements, major measures, and work priorities of these strategic tasks. Fifth, deeply understand the fundamental guarantee for economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. The more complex and changeable the situation and the more arduous and heavy the tasks, the more necessary it is to adhere to, utilize, and develop the Party's leadership, the greatest advantage, and to run the Party's leadership through all aspects and the entire process of economic and social development.
The article points out that it is necessary to earnestly grasp the implementation of the spirit of the Plenary Session. In the process of implementing the spirit of the Plenary Session, the following points should be focused on. First, unswervingly promote high-quality development. It is necessary to lead development with the new development concept, maintain effective improvement in quality and reasonable growth in quantity, and promote sustained and healthy economic development and comprehensive social progress. Adhere to focusing on the real economy as the focus of economic development, further comprehensively deepen reform, and place the development of new quality productive forces in a more prominent strategic position. Second, accelerate the construction of a new development pattern. It is necessary to adhere to expanding domestic demand as a strategic base point, adhere to closely combining benefiting the people and promoting consumption, investing in things and investing in people, promote the virtuous interaction between consumption and investment, supply and demand, and enhance the endogenous power and reliability of the domestic grand cycle. Accelerate the construction of a unified national market, comprehensively rectify "involutionary" competition, and unswervingly expand high-level opening to the outside world. Third, promote solid progress in common prosperity for all the people. It is necessary to adhere to guaranteeing and improving people's livelihoods in development, and steadily promote common prosperity. Optimize the regional economic layout, promote coordinated regional development, promote integrated urban-rural development, promote comprehensive rural revitalization, improve the income distribution system, strengthen inclusive, basic, and bottom-line livelihood construction, and steadily promote the equalization of basic public services. Fourth, better coordinate development and security. It is necessary to deeply implement the overall national security concept, adhere to consolidating security in development and seeking development in security. Improve the national security system, put safeguarding political security in the first place, and improve the level of public safety governance. Fifth, coordinate the promotion of work in various fields. It is necessary to adhere to the concept of systems, consciously act under the overall situation, and play a national game of chess well. Be good at "playing the piano," pay attention to the coordination of various policies, and maintain the consistency of macroeconomic policy orientation.
The article points out that the more effective the governance of the Party, the more powerful the guarantee for economic and social development. We must, with the perseverance and dedication of always being on the road, unremittingly promote the comprehensive and strict governance of the Party. First, resolutely implement the requirements of the Party's self-revolution. The Party's self-revolution and economic and social development are closely linked, mutually promoting, and mutually reinforcing. It is necessary to fully implement the Party Central Committee's important thoughts on Party building and the Party's self-revolution, and comprehensively and integrally implement the requirements of promoting the Party's self-revolution "five further in place." Second, promote the normalization and long-term effectiveness of the Party's style construction. It is necessary to consolidate and expand the results of in-depth implementation of the spirit of the Central Eight-Point Regulation, strengthen Party spirit training, continue to deepen and expand the work of rectifying formalism and reducing burdens for the grassroots, so that the vast number of grassroots cadres have more energy to grasp implementation. Third, unswervingly carry out the anti-corruption struggle. It is necessary to always maintain a high-pressure posture against corruption, and achieve no stop, no retreat. Improve the system and mechanism, and continue to exert efforts and advance in depth in eradicating the soil and conditions for the emergence of corruption problems. Continue to strengthen ideal and belief education, so that the vast number of Party members and cadres always keep in mind and consciously practice the Party's original aspiration and mission, and ensure that the red country will never change color.
Return to TopBy: 本报评论员
This is a heart-warming and deeply affectionate tribute: "Everyone strives for progress, cultivates and contributes, creating a thriving China (中国)."
This is an earnest expectation that inspires people to forge ahead: "Let us work together for our dreams and strive for happiness, turning grand visions into beautiful realities."
On the eve of the New Year, President Xi Jinping (习近平) delivered his New Year message for 2026, reviewing the extraordinary past five years, gazing at the unforgettable past year, paying tribute to every hard-working striver, focusing on "writing a new chapter of Chinese (中国) miracles," and encouraging the opening year to "anchor the goals and tasks, strengthen confidence, and take advantage of the momentum."
Time flies, and struggle is eternal. The journey is long, and the struggle is the same.
In the past five years that we have walked together, the "14th Five-Year Plan" has come to a successful conclusion, and Chinese-style modernization has taken new and solid steps. Everyone is a participant, a witness, and a striver and beneficiary.
Opening up a new situation in hard work, we are more confident.
The total economic volume has continuously crossed new thresholds, demonstrating the strong resilience and vitality of China's (我国) economy; scientific and technological innovation achievements are emerging one after another, deeply cultivating the strong momentum of high-quality development; the people's living standards continue to improve, and people's livelihood security is more effective, giving hundreds of millions of people energy, hope, and prospects...
Looking at the more than 9.6 million square kilometers of land, urban-rural integration and regional coordination jointly paint a long picture of development, and the tide of science and technology and the answer sheet of people's livelihood play a movement of progress together. The pace of the Chinese (中国) people towards a happy and beautiful life is unstoppable.
**咬定青山不放松** (yǎo dìng qīng shān bù fàng sōng - "Bite the green hills and don't relax," to remain steadfast and determined). As General Secretary Xi Jinping (习近平) emphasized: "We have further enhanced our ambition, backbone, and confidence in hard work, and we are more determined and confident in promoting the construction of a strong country and realizing the rejuvenation of the nation."
We are more calm and composed as we move forward against pressure and towards new and better things.
It is difficult to know if you haven't experienced it. In the face of the word "difficult," China (中国) responded to the world's concerns with the word "resilience."
This resilience is "demonstrating our hardcore strength and winning the respect of the international community" under the turbulent tariff war and trade war; it is coordinating development and security in the face of deep-seated contradictions and problems that "cannot be avoided or bypassed," enhancing economic and social resilience, and responding to various uncertainties with the certainty of high-quality development; it is "when one party is in trouble, all parties support" in the face of natural disasters such as earthquakes, droughts, and floods, concentrating efforts to do big things, which is a reflection of the superiority of the socialist system.
Practice has fully proved that with General Secretary Xi Jinping (习近平) at the helm and the scientific guidance of Xi Jinping's (习近平) Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, we can be calm in the midst of chaos and remain invincible in the face of storms. Even if the situation changes, "**千磨万击还坚劲，任尔东西南北风**" (qiān mó wàn jī hái jiān jìng, rèn ěr dōng xī nán běi fēng - "subjected to all kinds of setbacks, it remains firm and strong; let the wind blow from the east, west, north, and south," no matter how many setbacks, it remains firm and strong), we will concentrate our efforts on doing our own thing well, and we will have the hardest confidence and the most sufficient confidence.
We are more powerful in accumulating momentum in courageous struggle.
Experiencing change makes us understand more that "history is created by the people," and accumulates greater impetus for forward development. The heroic declaration "The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable! The noble cause of human peace and development will surely win!" at the Victory Day parade, condensed the mighty force for courageous advancement. In the globally popular *Ne Zha 2*, "If there is no way forward, I will step out a way" expresses the firm belief of the Chinese (中国) people...
China (中华), with its vast cultural heritage. Today's China (中国) is shining with brilliance in the integration of tradition and modernity, doubling its confidence in forging ahead in inheriting the spirit of integrity, and leading the future in steadily following the "Chinese (中国) path," promoting "Chinese (中国) governance," and demonstrating "Chinese (中国) principles."
The long river of history is surging endlessly because of the relay of generations of strivers. From the decline and desolation more than a hundred years ago to the thriving prosperity of today, our Party has united and led hundreds of millions of people to create amazing miracles and embark on the broad road of Chinese-style modernization.
Moving forward, what do we rely on to create brilliance? What do we rely on to continue the legend?
At this moment, the answer is extremely clear, and we are extremely determined: achieve great undertakings with hard work and win the future with innovation.
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st. Premier of the State Council Li Qiang (李强) presided over an executive meeting of the State Council on December 31st, hearing a report on the construction of the national water network, deploying the replication and promotion of special action policies and measures to facilitate cross-border trade, and deliberating and approving the "Regulations on Water Supply (Draft)" and the "Implementation Regulations of the Drug Administration Law of the People's Republic of China (Revised Draft)".
The meeting pointed out that in recent years, various localities and relevant departments have conscientiously implemented the "National Water Network Construction Plan Outline," and the main framework and main artery of the national water network have been gradually improved. The main drainage and water transmission channels and important regulation and storage nodes have been accelerated, achieving positive results. Building a national water network is a strategic measure to optimize water resource allocation, improve flood control and disaster reduction capabilities, and ensure national water security. At the same time, it also has multiple effects such as transportation, ecological environmental protection, and tourism landscape. It is an important carrier and starting point for expanding domestic demand in the current and future period. Water network projects have large investment scales, long related chains, and involve many departments. Close coordination and cooperation are needed to accelerate the preliminary work of projects, strengthen the guarantee of land and other factors, and ensure the smooth implementation of projects. It is necessary to innovate investment and financing mechanisms, leverage the guiding role of government investment, guide central and state-owned enterprises to increase investment, actively attract private capital participation, and raise construction funds through multiple channels. Efforts should be made to create high-quality projects, and quality supervision should be implemented throughout the entire process of project approval, construction, and acceptance to ensure that the construction of the water network can stand the test of history.
The meeting pointed out that facilitating cross-border trade is an important part of creating a first-class business environment. It is necessary to promote the efficient and smooth flow of cross-border logistics, strengthen the connection between channels and transportation modes, and deepen the coordinated entry and exit of multimodal transport in coastal, inland, and border areas. It is necessary to promote the development of new business forms and models such as green trade and cross-border e-commerce, optimize the supervision of special commodities, and support comprehensive bonded zones to carry out bonded testing business. It is necessary to improve the level of intelligent supervision and service, deepen the construction of smart customs and smart ports, and promote the cross-border interconnection of the "single window" for international trade. It is necessary to strengthen joint prevention and control at ports, strictly control the quality of import and export commodities, and ensure that they can pass quickly and be managed effectively.
The meeting pointed out that the water supply industry is a livelihood undertaking that concerns every household. It is necessary to adhere to urban-rural coordination, promote the common development of urban and rural water supply, and focus on building a complete chain of standardized systems from water source to tap. It is necessary to implement multi-source complementarity according to local conditions, increase support for the renovation and upgrading of water supply pipe networks, do a good job in the daily maintenance of terminal facilities such as pressure regulation and storage, and ensure water quality safety. It is necessary to urge water supply units to strictly implement laws and regulations, carry out standardized and professional operations, strengthen water supply safety risk management and control, enhance emergency management and disposal capabilities, and continuously improve the level of water supply operation and service.
The meeting pointed out that timely revision of laws and regulations on drug administration and supervision in accordance with changes in the situation is of great significance for ensuring the safety of people's medication and promoting the healthy and orderly development of the pharmaceutical industry. It is necessary to improve the drug research and development and registration system, accelerate the review and approval of breakthrough therapeutic drugs, and continuously stimulate the vitality of industrial innovation and development. It is necessary to maintain a high-pressure situation in drug supervision, strengthen quality supervision throughout the entire chain and process, and severely crack down on illegal and irregular activities in the drug field.
The meeting also studied other matters.
Return to TopBy: 民进中央主席 蔡达峰
Comrades and friends,
A new year begins, and the country prospers. As we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new, I extend, on behalf of the central committees of all democratic parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, and personages without party affiliation, our highest respect to the great Communist Party of China! I extend our best wishes to the people of all ethnic groups across the country, to our compatriots in Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, and to overseas Chinese!
Looking back on the year 2025, which is about to pass, we are filled with emotion and pride. Facing the complex and volatile international situation and the arduous and heavy domestic tasks of reform, development, and stability, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping (习近平) at its core, with its firm strategic clarity, broad strategic vision, and systematic strategic deployment, united and led the entire Party and the people of all ethnic groups across the country to overcome difficulties and forge ahead, successfully convened the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, and mapped out the "15th Five-Year Plan" blueprint; we solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, which greatly stimulated patriotic enthusiasm, boosted development confidence, and gathered the immense power of unity and struggle. The cause of the Party and the country has achieved new and significant achievements, Chinese-style modernization has taken new and solid steps, and a good start has been made in the new journey towards the second centenary goal.
This year, the development of multi-party cooperation has made new progress. Under the guidance of Xi Jinping (习近平) Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, the democratic parties and personages without party affiliation have carried out in-depth thematic education on "studying regulations, strengthening work style, and establishing image," and the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce has deployed in-depth study and education on thoroughly implementing the spirit of the Central Eight-Point Regulation, continuously improving its own construction level and ability to perform its duties; adhering to focusing on the center, serving the overall situation, and exerting efforts in both directions, giving full play to its own advantages, conducting in-depth investigations and research, actively offering suggestions and advice, and widely building consensus, achieving fruitful results and demonstrating its mission and responsibility.
Comrades and friends! Looking forward to the upcoming year 2026, we are full of confidence and high spirits. We must unite more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping (习近平) at its core, uphold our original aspiration and mission, carry forward our fine traditions, continuously strengthen our own construction, better serve the overall development situation, and work together to achieve basic socialist modernization, and contribute our wisdom and strength to comprehensively promoting the construction of a strong country and the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation with Chinese-style modernization!
Return to TopFrom enterprise workshops to fields, from university classrooms to community squares... In recent days, lecture groups from Jilin, Jiangxi, Yunnan, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (新疆生产建设兵团), and other regions and units have gone deep into the grassroots to carry out multi-level and diversified lectures, allowing the spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China to take root, blossom, and bear fruit at the grassroots level.
Improving theoretical understanding is the prerequisite for grassroots lecturers to do a good job.
Theoretical lectures, group discussions, on-site teaching... From December 3rd to 5th, the Jilin Province (吉林省) Grassroots Theoretical Lecture Backbone Training Class on Studying, Publicizing, and Implementing the Spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was held in Songyuan City (松原市), with more than 150 theoretical propaganda workers, university ideological and political course teachers, integrated media editors and reporters, and theoretical volunteer representatives participating. The trainees shared their experience in propaganda work and further consolidated their consensus on action.
"This training class made me pay attention to the requirements of differentiated, interactive, and targeted lectures, using everyday language from the fields to thoroughly explain policies, and conveying the spirit of the plenary session to the hearts of the people," said Ma Lin (马琳), Propaganda Committee Member of Tuchengzi Manchu and Korean Ethnic Township (土城子满族朝鲜族乡) in Changyi District (昌邑区), Jilin City (吉林市).
At Jilin University (吉林大学), members of the doctoral student lecture group combined their own majors to conduct 15 lectures for teachers and students; at the Changchun City (长春市) "Study Times" Lecture College, citizens listened to lecturers explain the main goals of economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period; in Fusong County (抚松县), Baishan City (白山市), the lecture "Chatting about the good policies of the Fourth Plenary Session for the elderly" attracted elderly fitness team members to participate; in Wangqi Town (旺起镇), Fengman District (丰满区), Jilin City (吉林市), Zhao Hongliang (赵宏良), an employee of the local power supply station, while helping elderly villagers deal with electric heating failures, explained: "The plenary session proposed strengthening basic public services, which is to ensure that the heating in our old folks' homes is warm"... As of December 29, Jilin Province (吉林省) had carried out more than 18,000 grassroots lecture activities on the spirit of the plenary session.
To make the lectures enter the mind and heart, the key is to explain the principles to the hearts of the people.
"What is agricultural and rural modernization?" "Will we farmers be left behind by modernization?"... Faced with everyone's questions, a special lecture at the New Era Civilization Practice Center in Heyuan Township (荷源乡), Lichuan County (黎川县), Fuzhou City (抚州市), Jiangxi Province (江西省), provided answers.
Wang Zhigang (王志刚), captain of the "Old Squad Leader" lecture team in Lichuan County (黎川县), sat among the villagers, using a local accent full of the flavor of the countryside to translate the macro requirements proposed by the plenary session, such as "improving the social governance system," into "everyday principles" that everyone could understand and remember. "Agricultural and rural modernization means making village roads smoother, making it easier for the elderly to see doctors, making neighborhood conflicts easier to resolve, and making the living environment safer." His words went straight to the hearts of the people, arousing resonance among the villagers.
This "Old Squad Leader" lecture team is a comprehensive team that integrates policy lectures and diversified services. To be more down-to-earth, the lecture team moved the classroom from the conference room to farm courtyards and cultural squares, and wrote the urgent and difficult problems of the masses into the "Public Opinion Ledger" and followed up to solve them.
Combining local cultural characteristics and innovating forms will make the lectures more "vital."
"To revitalize the industry, outstanding people are needed." On December 25, in the "Baili·Chunqiu" Spring City Reception Hall in Kunming (昆明), Yunnan (云南), a special lecture was underway, accompanied by the melody of the National Southwest Associated University (西南联大) school song. From the spirit of the National Southwest Associated University to the memories of Cuihu Lake (翠湖), to the development of urban cultural tourism, the lecturer spoke eloquently.
"Coffee trees grow in Yunnan (云南) and are also imbued with the local cultural atmosphere." As a representative of the newly employed group, Liu Nian (刘念), founder of Yunnan Liu Nian Coffee, felt deeply after listening to the lecture.
The Yunnan Provincial Party Committee Lecture Group traveled to all 16 prefectures (cities) and held 47 report meetings and 58 symposium lectures. Various localities also "came up with ingenious tricks": in the Dai ethnic courtyard in Xishuangbanna (西双版纳), young people sat around and talked earnestly, discussing taking root in the border areas; Dali (大理) compiled the spirit of the plenary session into "Bai Opera," singing it to the hearts of the people in local dialects; "Yun Xiaoxuan" and other AI virtual lecturers used novel forms to let the spirit of the plenary session "enter the homes of ordinary people."
In recent days, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (新疆生产建设兵团) Lecture Group has continued to carry out lectures to promote the spirit of the plenary session to go deeper and more solid.
In Lihua Community (丽华社区), Sixty-Eighth Regiment, Fourth Division of the Corps, members of the Corps Lecture Group entered the Party-Masses Service Center, sat down with employees and the masses to exchange learning experiences, and focused on the deployment requirements of "improving community governance" in the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" proposal, combined with the actual situation of the community to answer questions, solve problems, and offer suggestions.
"This lecture was very 'thirst-quenching'," said Luo Huiqin (罗惠琴), secretary of the Party branch of Lihua Community (丽华社区). "Our direction for doing grassroots work is clearer and our confidence is stronger. We must build the community into a common home where everyone is willing to come, live in peace, and live comfortably, step by step."
The Corps Lecture Group also regarded youth lectures as a key task, entering Xinjiang Institute of Technology (新疆工业学院), Xinjiang Polytechnic Vocational University (新疆理工职业大学), Shuanghe Vocational Technical College (双河职业技术学院) and other institutions to interpret the spirit of the plenary session and respond to students' growth concerns. "My biggest feeling is that I was born in the right time and have a responsibility on my shoulders," said Wang Zimo (王子墨), a student at Xinjiang Institute of Technology (新疆工业学院). "I must learn professional knowledge well and integrate my personal ideals into practice."
(Xinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31)
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st - The General Office of the State Council (国务院办公厅) recently issued the "Assessment Measures for Implementing the Rigid Water Resource Constraint System" (落实水资源刚性约束制度考核办法) (hereinafter referred to as the "Measures"), which will come into effect from the date of issuance.
The "Measures" are an important institutional document for assessing the implementation of the rigid water resource constraint system by the people's governments of each province (autonomous region, and municipality directly under the Central Government) (各省（自治区、直辖市）人民政府). The main purpose is to promote the implementation of the rigid water resource constraint system, strengthen the conservation, intensive and safe utilization of water resources, improve the ecological environment of rivers and lakes, control the development and utilization of water resources within the carrying capacity, and enable limited water resources to effectively support and guarantee high-quality development.
The "Measures" stipulate that the assessment work should adhere to goal orientation and problem orientation, and scientifically set assessment indicators; adhere to law-based governance, streamlining and efficiency, and simplify and optimize assessment content; adhere to promoting work through assessment and focusing on practical results, and strengthen the application of assessment results. The assessment content includes the completion of the goals of the rigid water resource constraint system, the implementation of tasks and measures such as promoting economic and social development based on water availability, water conservation and intensive utilization, water resource protection and overload management, and water resource supervision, as well as the implementation of responsibilities and reform and innovation. The assessment is conducted once a year, mainly including procedures such as self-assessment, verification and scoring, comprehensive evaluation, result feedback and announcement. The assessment results are divided into four grades: excellent, good, qualified, and unqualified. The assessment results are submitted to the competent cadre department as an important reference for the comprehensive assessment and evaluation of the main responsible persons and leading bodies of the people's governments of each province (autonomous region, and municipality directly under the Central Government) (各省（自治区、直辖市）人民政府).
The "Measures" clarify that units and individuals who have made significant achievements in the implementation of the rigid water resource constraint system will be considered for relevant commendations and awards in accordance with relevant national regulations; if the assessment result is unqualified, measures for rectification within a time limit shall be proposed, and a written report shall be submitted to the State Council (国务院); if major dereliction of duty or malfeasance is found in the assessment or rectification, accountability and responsibility shall be pursued in accordance with laws and regulations.
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st (Xinhua) -- The State Council has appointed and removed national personnel.
Yang Jin (杨进) has been appointed as Vice Minister of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission (国家民族事务委员会); Lin Zechang (林泽昌) has been appointed as Vice Minister of the Ministry of Finance (财政部); Li Xinghu (李兴湖) has been appointed as Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport (交通运输部); Zhan Hao (詹浩) has been appointed as Vice Chairman of the National Natural Science Foundation of China (国家自然科学基金委员会); Zhang Yong (张勇) has been appointed as Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (中央人民政府驻香港特别行政区联络办公室).
Bainba Zhaxi (边巴扎西) has been removed from the post of Vice Minister of the State Ethnic Affairs Commission (国家民族事务委员会); Yu Huiwen (于会文) has been removed from the post of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部); Fu Xuyin (付绪银) has been removed from the post of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport (交通运输部); Qi Bin (祁斌) has been removed from the post of Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (中央人民政府驻香港特别行政区联络办公室).
Return to TopTime flies, and everything takes on a new look. As the New Year arrives, President Xi Jinping (习近平) delivered his New Year message for 2026, paying tribute to every hard-working individual.
2025 is the concluding year of the "14th Five-Year Plan." Over the past 5 years, we have shed sweat and strived diligently. In the fields, on construction sites, in bustling streets, and in busy factories, every hardworking figure has jointly forged a thriving China.
The long river of time surges forward, and a new journey is already under our feet. 2026, the opening year of the "15th Five-Year Plan," let us work together for our dreams and strive for happiness, joining hands to turn grand visions into beautiful realities.
-- Editor
Cong Wenfeng (丛汶峰), Professor at China Agricultural University (中国农业大学) --
Rooted in the Fields, Helping Farmers Increase Production and Income
By Wu Yue (吴月), reporter of this newspaper
President Xi Jinping (习近平) emphasized in his New Year message: "The five-year journey has been extremely extraordinary, and the achievements have not come easily. Everyone has worked hard, forged ahead, cultivated, and dedicated themselves, creating a thriving China."
During the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, China's annual grain output increased from 1,365.7 billion jin in 2021 to 1,429.75 billion jin in 2025. "As an agricultural science and technology worker, I deeply feel that the prosperity of agriculture is the result of hundreds of millions of farmers irrigating with sweat and striving to cultivate," said Cong Wenfeng (丛汶峰), a professor at the College of Resources and Environmental Sciences of China Agricultural University (中国农业大学资源与环境学院).
China Agricultural University (中国农业大学) and Quzhou County (曲周县), Hebei (河北) Province, have promoted the "Green Ton and a Half Grain" initiative through school-local cooperation, striving to achieve an annual yield of more than 1.5 tons per mu for winter wheat and summer corn. Cong Wenfeng (丛汶峰) and his colleagues led students from the Science and Technology Backyard in tackling key problems in multiple thousand-mu demonstration plots.
In 2025, local winter wheat suffered from low-temperature drought and insufficient sunlight, while summer corn first encountered high temperatures and then continuous rainy weather. The team was stationed at the Science and Technology Backyard for more than 200 days, on the one hand, innovating and applying green and intelligent fertilizers, precise regulation of fertilizer and water, and deep plowing and fertilization, and other green, high-yield, and efficient technologies; on the other hand, through technical training, driving farmers to improve their planting skills.
The yield measurement results on October 16 were pleasantly surprising. Taking the thousand-mu plot in Wangzhuang Village (王庄村), Dituan Town (第四疃镇), Quzhou County (曲周县) as an example, the annual yield of winter wheat and summer corn reached a total of 1557.4 kilograms per mu.
What is even more unforgettable is that the yield measurement day was World Food Day and the 120th anniversary of the founding of China Agricultural University (中国农业大学). Everyone read General Secretary Xi Jinping's (习近平) reply to all teachers and students of China Agricultural University (中国农业大学), and the exhortation to "be determined to strengthen agriculture and serve the country" was deeply imprinted in the hearts of teachers and students.
At present, new hope is being nurtured in the wheat fields. Cong Wenfeng (丛汶峰) said: "We will continue to write papers on the vast fields, innovate green, high-yield, and efficient technologies and products, and drive more regions to achieve increased agricultural production and increased farmer income."
An Yongguo (安永国), Squad Leader of the Navigation Radar Squad of the Fujian Ship (福建舰) --
Cultivating Reliable and Efficient "Deep Blue Eyes"
By Jin Zhengbo (金正波), reporter of this newspaper
After finishing the daily inspection of system equipment, An Yongguo (安永国), the squad leader of the navigation radar squad of the Fujian Ship (福建舰), and his comrades quickly walked into the restaurant. All officers and soldiers were neatly dressed, their eyes focused on the screen, carefully watching President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message.
"President Xi (习近平) mentioned in his New Year message that the first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier has officially entered service. As a member of the Fujian Ship (福建舰), I feel a great responsibility and a glorious mission," said An Yongguo (安永国). Navigation radar is the "eye" of a ship, and although the position is in a small space, it protects the safety of navigation.
For An Yongguo (安永国), 2025 was an extraordinary year. This year, the grand meeting to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War was held. "Seeing the steel Great Wall phalanx of the Republic like a mountain and with a majestic momentum on TV, as a soldier, my heart was surging," said An Yongguo (安永国).
In 2025, the Fujian Ship (福建舰) entered service. As the first batch of crew members of the Fujian Ship (福建舰), An Yongguo (安永国) was honored to be reviewed by President Xi (习近平). "In 2019, as a crew member of the Shandong Ship (山东舰), I was also reviewed by President Xi (习近平)," An Yongguo (安永国) said proudly.
As time passed, from a new recruit to a professional backbone, An Yongguo (安永国) not only skillfully mastered radar operation, equipment debugging, fault troubleshooting, and other skills, but also led the entire squad to complete navigation support tasks under complex sea conditions many times.
President Xi Jinping's (习近平) earnest exhortations in his New Year message filled An Yongguo (安永国) with enthusiasm: "Entering service is a new starting point for guarding the sea. In the new year, I will lead the squad members to deeply study professional knowledge and practice skills to the extreme, so that the navigation radar becomes the most reliable and efficient 'deep blue eye'."
An Yongguo (安永国) firmly believes that with the joint efforts of all officers and soldiers on the ship, the combat power system of the Fujian Ship (福建舰) will be more complete, and the People's Navy's offshore defense capabilities will achieve a new leap.
(Long Chi (龙驰) participated in the writing)
Wang Xingxing (王兴兴), Founder of Unitree Robotics (宇树科技) --
Promoting Robots to Empower Thousands of Industries
By Dou Hao (窦皓), reporter of this newspaper
After finishing a day's work, Wang Xingxing (王兴兴), the founder of Unitree Robotics (宇树科技), opened his mobile phone and watched President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message.
President Xi Jinping (习近平) mentioned in his New Year message that innovative achievements are emerging in large numbers, and "humanoid robots show off 'Kung Fu mode'." As an entrepreneur in the embodied intelligence robot industry, Wang Xingxing (王兴兴) deeply feels the country's high attention to scientific and technological innovation, which encourages him to continue to bravely break into the "no-man's land" of technology in the new year and promote robots to empower thousands of industries.
In February 2025, General Secretary Xi Jinping (习近平) attended a symposium on private enterprises and delivered an important speech, emphasizing that the development prospects of the private economy in the new era and new journey are broad and promising, and it is the right time for the vast number of private enterprises and private entrepreneurs to show their talents. Wang Xingxing (王兴兴) was one of the representatives of private enterprise leaders and spoke at the meeting. Talking about that moment, he was very excited: "Thanks to China's complete industrial chain and broad market, from technology research and development to product implementation, we have continued to explore in the field of embodied intelligence."
As a civilian robot company mainly engaged in the research and development and production of quadruped robots and humanoid robots, Unitree Robotics (宇树科技) has achieved independent research and development of key components such as motors, reducers, controllers, and lidar, as well as high-performance perception and motion control algorithms.
From product development to exchange and discussion, Wang Xingxing (王兴兴) is very busy. At present, he is devoting part of his energy to promoting the commercialization of robots. "We are conducting in-depth technical integration and scenario polishing on the new generation of general-purpose robot platforms," said Wang Xingxing (王兴兴). "In the future, it is expected to realize the entire process of intelligence from task understanding to execution through a general-purpose platform, so that robots can play a role in more application scenarios."
In the new year, Unitree Robotics (宇树科技) plans to launch more advanced robots. "Technological innovation must be rooted in industrial needs," said Wang Xingxing (王兴兴). The team will further increase scientific research investment and continuously develop new technologies and new products.
Qu Feng (屈峰), Cultural Heritage Conservation Worker at the Palace Museum (故宫博物院) --
Scientifically Protecting and Restoring Palace Museum Cultural Relics
By Zhou Feiya (周飞亚), reporter of this newspaper
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year message: "Tradition and modernity blend together, and Chinese culture blooms with even more brilliant light."
Qu Feng (屈峰), director of the Cultural Heritage Conservation and Restoration Department of the Palace Museum (故宫博物院文保修复部), introduced that the protection and restoration of cultural relics in the Palace Museum (故宫) is a reflection of combining science and technology with traditional skills on the premise of fully recognizing the value of cultural relics.
2025 is the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Palace Museum (故宫博物院). General Secretary Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out that at a new starting point, the Palace Museum (故宫博物院) should carry forward its fine traditions, adhere to the principle that cultural relics belong to the people and serve the people, strengthen the protection and restoration of cultural relics, and improve the level of activation and utilization of cultural relics.
The enthusiasm for cultural relics and intangible cultural heritage continues to rise. In 2025, the Palace Museum (故宫博物院) will continue to strengthen the protection and restoration of cultural relics, do a good job in the exhibition and display of cultural relics, and continue to expand the open area. The "Centennial Guardianship" exhibition allowed the audience to see the true faces of national treasure-level cultural relics such as "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" (《清明上河图》) and "Boyuan Tie" (《伯远帖》) again; after 25 years of protection and renovation, the first two courtyards of the Ningshou Palace Garden (宁寿宫花园) were opened to the public; the Hall of Mental Cultivation (养心殿) was reopened to tourists after 10 years of restoration.
"The protection and restoration of cultural relics requires solid skills, but also a full understanding of their historical value, scientific value, and artistic value," Qu Feng (屈峰) introduced. In 2025, the Cultural Heritage Conservation and Restoration Department organized a metal cultural relic restoration team to protect and restore the bronze vats in front of the Hall of Supreme Harmony (太和殿); organized lacquerware cultural relic restoration teams and inlaid cultural relic restoration teams to restore some of the more difficult cultural relics to restore in the Ningshou Palace Garden (宁寿宫花园). The most complex was the restoration of the Hall of Mental Cultivation (养心殿), where they organized forces to restore the interior decoration, and a total of more than 600 Tieluo (贴落) cultural relics were restored.
Qu Feng (屈峰) said: "In the new year, we must take General Secretary Xi Jinping's (习近平) important speech as a guide, continue to strengthen the investment of forces, improve technical level, increase scientific research efforts, and deeply study the causes of cultural relic diseases and protection and restoration methods, so that more cultural relics can be scientifically protected and restored, and better achieve healthy inheritance."
Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗), Villager of Cuo'ang Village (措昂村), Quluo Township (曲洛乡), Dingri County (定日县), Tibet (西藏) --
Creating a Steaming New Life with Our Own Hands
By Xu Yuyao (徐驭尧), reporter of this newspaper
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year message: "Firewood, rice, oil, salt, three meals a day, and four seasons, every 'small family' is steaming hot, and China, this 'big family,' is thriving."
At the foot of Mount Everest, on the banks of the Pengqu River, a new Tibetan-style building is scattered in a well-proportioned manner. This is the new home of the villagers of Cuo'ang Village (措昂村), Quluo Township (曲洛乡), Dingri County (定日县), Shigatse City (日喀则市), Tibet (西藏). The room was warm, and Awang Quzong's (阿旺曲宗) family sat around the TV, watching President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message.
Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗) said: "For our 'small family,' 2025 is a very special year, with the pain after the earthquake, the enthusiasm during reconstruction, and the joy of moving into a new home."
In January 2025, a sudden earthquake caused Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗) to lose her home. On the day of the earthquake, rescue forces moved in; 4 days later, the villagers moved into prefabricated houses; in September, they received the keys to their new homes...
During the reconstruction process, Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗) participated in cleaning up waste materials, etc., and her husband, Bianba (边巴), was a truck driver, transporting various materials needed for reconstruction. Like Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗), many villagers took the initiative to participate in the construction of the new home.
From laying the foundation to pouring, capping, and decorating, Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗) witnessed and participated in every bit of the reconstruction of Cuo'ang Village (措昂村). "Seeing that the steel bars are so thick, we are happy in our hearts, and the new home must be extremely strong!" she recalled.
Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗) moved into a new home of more than 160 square meters, purchased furniture, and decorated the new home warmly and comfortably. "I can proudly tell my children that my mother personally participated in the construction of the new home," she said.
Living in a new home, Awang Quzong (阿旺曲宗) is full of expectations for the future: "In the new year, we must keep in mind the entrustment, listen to the Party, follow the Party, and create a steaming new life with our own hands."
Wang Cheng (王程), Staff Member of the Hainan International Ship Registration Administration (海南国际船舶登记管理局) --
Attracting More International Ships to Settle in Hainan (海南)
By Sun Haitian (孙海天), reporter of this newspaper
The sea breeze blows through Yangpu Port (洋浦港), and giant ships honk their horns and set sail. Wang Cheng (王程), director of the Registration Service Department of the Hainan International Ship Registration Administration (海南国际船舶登记管理局登记服务处), completed the registration business for an international ship. He opened his mobile phone and watched President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message.
President Xi Jinping (习近平) mentioned that the entire island of the Hainan Free Trade Port (海南自贸港) will be closed for operation. Wang Cheng (王程), a post-90s builder of the Free Trade Port, was excited: "We must explore through practice to allow ships to come in, stay, and sail far."
On December 18, 2025, the entire island of the Hainan Free Trade Port (海南自贸港) officially started closed operation, and shipping companies accelerated their layout in Hainan (海南). The Registration Service Department where Wang Cheng (王程) works is the "first gate" for ships to enter the Free Trade Port. In order to allow more shipping companies to complete their layout as soon as possible, Wang Cheng (王程) and his team sometimes work overtime until the early hours of the morning to assist companies in checking hundreds of pages of application materials.
In the past year, Wang Cheng (王程) and his colleagues optimized the process, compressing the time limit for ship registration from "working day level" to "minute level"; completed the registration of the first ship in China owned by a financial leasing company enjoying export tax rebate policy.
With the official launch of the entire island's closed operation, the policy dividends of "first-line liberalization" have been further released; the implementation of the zero-tariff "negative list" management will attract more foreign special ships. At present, the number of ships registered in the "China Yangpu Port" (中国洋浦港) port of registry has reached 82, and the total deadweight tonnage ranks first among the national free trade ports (zones). In the new year, Wang Cheng (王程) is full of enthusiasm: "We must make greater efforts to attract more international ships to settle in Hainan (海南)."
Return to TopPresident Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year's message that green mountains and clear waters have become a beautiful backdrop. In the past year, we have cooperated with scientific research institutions to strengthen the protection, restoration, and governance of ecosystems. In the new year, we will continue to work hard in improving systems and mechanisms, strengthening ecological protection, enhancing governance capabilities, and promoting community co-management, to make new contributions to building a national park where humans and nature coexist harmoniously.
——Tian Wei (田伟), staff member of the Shangri-La National Park (香格里拉国家公园) candidate area in Yunnan Province (云南省)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year's message that the people's sense of gain, happiness, and security has been continuously enhanced. In the new year, I hope that there will be more and more good policies that benefit the people, so that the lives of ordinary people will become more and more flavorful, and their happiness will be full.
——Zhang Wu (张武), resident of Kuizhou (夔州) Street, Fengjie County (奉节县), Chongqing (重庆市)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year's message that China has become one of the fastest-growing economies in terms of innovation. This has further strengthened our confidence in innovative development. In 2025, we will increase our research and development efforts and introduce more intelligent equipment to achieve a high degree of automation in our production processes. In the new year, we will vigorously strengthen technological breakthroughs, use more independently developed and manufactured bearings to meet the development needs of various industries, and contribute the strength of front-line technicians to the leap of manufacturing.
——Yang Fuyun (杨福云), intelligent factory technology engineer of Luoyang Bearing Group Co., Ltd. (洛阳轴承集团股份有限公司)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) emphasized in his New Year's message that people of all ethnic groups are connected heart to heart, embracing each other tightly like pomegranate seeds. Our community has 1,840 households and is a big family where 14 ethnic groups live together. Everyone loves each other and helps each other. I participated in the community's "Pomegranate Blossoms Grassroots Propaganda Team." In the new year, I will start from the people and things around me and do my part to forge a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation.
——Li Limin (李丽敏), resident of Guyuan Lane Community (固原巷社区), Tianshan District (天山区), Urumqi (乌鲁木齐市), Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year's message that people's livelihood is no small matter, and every twig and leaf is always of concern. I feel particularly warm-hearted. Nowadays, age-friendly renovations bring convenience to the elderly. My grandson is in elementary school and eats government-subsidized nutritious meals; my granddaughter is almost two years old, and the children have received childcare subsidies. In the new year, I look forward to more and more good policies being implemented.
——Zhang Zhirong (张志荣), resident of Jinyang Street (金阳街道), Guanshanhu District (观山湖区), Guiyang City (贵阳市), Guizhou Province (贵州省)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year's message that we will continue to open our arms to embrace the world. This further strengthens our confidence in achieving better development through a higher level of opening up to the outside world. In the past year, as witnesses and participants, we have deepened the construction of the China-ASEAN "Trade Connect" digital platform, serving a cumulative total of more than 14,000 enterprises. In the new year, we will continue to optimize our services and contribute to maintaining the security and stability of the China-ASEAN industrial and supply chains.
——Zhao An (赵安), Business and Trade Industry Director of China-ASEAN Information Harbor Co., Ltd. (中国—东盟信息港股份有限公司)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) mentioned the National Games (全运会) in his New Year's message. At the 2025 National Games (全运会), I won 5 gold medals and broke the world youth record I held. In the new year, I will train harder and more practically, constantly challenge and surpass myself, and strive hard in international competitions to win glory for the country.
——Zhang Zhanshuo (张展硕), swimmer and world champion
President Xi Jinping (习近平) pointed out in his New Year's message that the Party's prosperity leads to the country's strength. In the past year, the community Party committee has taken Party building as the lead, improved the level of grassroots governance services, strived to do a good job in community renovation and upgrading, opened up exclusive spaces for children, and run elderly canteens well. In the new year, we will continue to focus on grassroots Party building, promote business with Party building, continue to work hard on spatial micro-renewal, and make Changan Community (长安社区) a warm and happy home for residents.
——Cao Xue (曹雪), Secretary of the Party Committee of Changan Community (长安社区), Changan Street (长安街道), Dadong District (大东区), Shenyang City (沈阳市), Liaoning Province (辽宁省)
President Xi Jinping (习近平) mentioned in his New Year's message, "Seeking dreams across mountains and seas, one does not feel the distance; the road ahead is long, stride forward." Since becoming a special post teacher in 2012, I have witnessed the growth of countless rural children on the three-foot platform in the mountains. In the future, I will continue to improve my teaching skills and strive to cultivate more socialist builders and successors with all-round development of morality, intelligence, physique, aesthetics, and labor.
——Huang Chunli (黄春立), Deputy Principal of Fengxi Town Central School (丰溪镇中心学校), Zhuxi County (竹溪县), Hubei Province (湖北省)
(Reported by Ye Chuanzeng (叶传增), Wang Xinyue (王欣悦), Zhang Wenhao (张文豪), Jiang Yunlong (蒋云龙), Su Bin (苏滨), Zhang Yunhe (张云河), Sun Longfei (孙龙飞), Liu Jiahua (刘佳华), and Wu Yue (吴月), reporters of this newspaper)
Return to TopThis edition coordinated by: Yin Xinyu (殷新宇), Jiang Xuejie (蒋雪婕), Lü Li (吕莉)
Layout design: Cai Huawei (蔡华伟), Zhang Fangman (张芳曼)
Integrated media creation: Zhang Shixuan (张世悬), Gong Han (巩晗)
Facing the morning sun, we embark on a new journey. A new year, a new endeavor.
The year 2025, which we just passed, was very extraordinary and unforgettable, of great significance in the process of Chinese-style modernization, and engraved a deep mark in the long river of years.
In this year, we concentrated our efforts on managing our own affairs well, and responded to various uncertainties with the certainty of high-quality development. The total economic volume is expected to reach about 140 trillion yuan, grain production has once again achieved high-level growth, scientific and technological innovation achievements are inspiring, new quality productive forces are booming, the construction of a modern industrial system is continuously advancing, further comprehensive deepening of reform is making solid progress, the answer sheet for people's livelihood is warming people's hearts, and China's economic foundation is solid, operating steadily, and developing towards new and better directions.
In this year, we unswervingly expanded opening up to the outside world, injecting positive energy into the world with the stability of China's development. The intended transaction volume of the China International Import Expo (进博会) calculated on an annual basis reached a new historical high, releasing the "magnetic attraction" of China's super-large-scale market. The Hainan Free Trade Port (海南自贸港) officially launched the full island customs closure operation, witnessing the steady advancement of high-level opening up to the outside world. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (上合组织) Tianjin Summit (天津峰会) was successfully held, and the global governance initiative provided a Chinese solution for reforming and improving the global governance system.
In this year, we were fearless of wind and rain, moving forward against pressure, and firmly grasped the strategic initiative in overcoming difficulties and risks. With the two overall situations in mind, based on the foundation of the real economy, adhering to the strategic base point of expanding domestic demand, we worked hard on internal skills and tapped potential. Coordinating domestic economic work and international economic and trade struggles, effectively resolving risks in key areas, and firmly safeguarding our legitimate rights and interests, demonstrated hardcore strength. A grand commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War (中国人民抗日战争暨世界反法西斯战争胜利80周年) was held, promoting the great spirit of resisting aggression, and drawing powerful strength from victory to forge ahead bravely.
"Taking the people's heart as one's own and taking the benefit of the world as one's own," the important conclusion of General Secretary Xi Jinping (习近平) reveals the source of China's confidence, its foundation, and its strength. Looking back at the past 5 years, we have effectively responded to various shocks and challenges, and China's economic strength, scientific and technological strength, defense strength, and comprehensive national strength have reached new levels. The 14th Five-Year Plan (十四五) has come to a successful conclusion, and the new journey towards the second centenary goal has achieved a good start. The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable. This fully demonstrates the decisive significance of the "two establishments" (两个确立), and further strengthens our composure and confidence in forging ahead under the strong leadership of the Party Central Committee.
At a critical period of inheriting the past and ushering in the future, the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (党的二十届四中全会) deliberated and approved the "15th Five-Year Plan" (十五五) proposal, drawing a blueprint for China's development in the next 5 years and providing the world with a "list of opportunities." 2026 is the first year of the "15th Five-Year Plan," and a good start is half the battle. Facing a profoundly complex and changing environment, facing old problems and new challenges, we must grasp the general trend of development, enhance our confidence in victory, make good use of the "four major advantages," ensure a good start and a good step for the "15th Five-Year Plan," and continue to write new chapters in the two major miracles of rapid economic development and long-term social stability.
To make a good start and take a good step, we must maintain our focus and perseverance. Modernization is a long-distance race. From a poor and weak agricultural country to the world's largest manufacturing country and the second largest economy, we have continued to struggle through many ups and downs, successfully promoted and expanded Chinese-style modernization, and opened up a new path for mankind to move towards modernization. Facing the future, time, trend, and righteousness are all on our side. Firmly establish a grand historical perspective, adhere to embracing the world, 咬定青山不放松 (yǎo dìng qīng shān bù fàng sōng - "bite the green hills and not relax," remain steadfast and determined), not be afraid of various risks, move towards the established strategic goals, maintain historical patience and a stable pace, and work year after year, we will definitely run the relay race of history well and lay a more solid foundation for the basic realization of socialist modernization.
To make a good start and take a good step, we must carry forward the spirit of historical initiative. Historical development has its laws. Grasping the laws, seizing the opportunity, acting in accordance with the trend, and striving for progress are the secrets to our continuous development and growth through wind and rain, and also an important indication of responding to changes and opening up new situations on the new journey. The road ahead cannot be smooth, there will inevitably be difficulties and obstacles, and major tests will inevitably be encountered. We must be good at recognizing changes, responding to changes, and seeking changes, seeking progress while maintaining stability, and acting proactively. With the courage to move forward despite difficulties, we will overcome difficulties, fight risks, and meet challenges. We will build a thoroughfare in overcoming obstacles and always stand invincible in the face of turbulent waves.
To make a good start and take a good step, we must work together with one heart and one mind and take practical responsibility. No matter how far the road is, we will reach it if we keep walking. To realize dreams, we must rely on hard work. Looking back on the past, it is precisely because hundreds of millions of people are united and working together to turn one "impossible" into "certainly possible." Looking ahead, only by integrating every "small self" into the "big self" of national rejuvenation can we use sweat and struggle to create a bright future for national development and progress and create a happier and better life. Adhering to standing on the people's position to consider issues, seeking political achievements for the people, seeking political achievements through practical work, being a firm action faction and pragmatist, and gathering the magnificent power to promote Chinese-style modernization, no difficulty can stop the Chinese people from moving forward!
2026 is the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March of the Red Army (红军长征胜利90周年). The great expedition 90 years ago established a spiritual monument from suffering to glory. Walking on the Long March of the new era, we are full of ambition and confidence. Unite more closely around the Party Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping (习近平同志) as the core, fully implement Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era (习近平新时代中国特色社会主义思想), strengthen the "four consciousnesses," strengthen the "four confidences," and achieve the "two safeguards." With rock-solid beliefs, the spirit of seizing every minute, and unyielding perseverance, we will jointly strive for the basic realization of socialist modernization, and we will surely continue to create a new situation in comprehensively promoting the construction of a strong country and the great rejuvenation of the nation with Chinese-style modernization.
Forward, march towards the magnificent future!
Return to Top"Seeking dreams across mountains and seas, one does not feel the distance; the road ahead is long, stride forward." On the eve of the New Year, President Xi Jinping (习近平) delivered his New Year message for 2026. Overseas Chinese listened and watched at the first opportunity. They told reporters from this newspaper that the New Year message looked back on the glorious achievements of the "14th Five-Year Plan," summarized the extraordinary journey of the past year, was full of warmth for the people's livelihood, inspired heroic feelings of striving forward, and called on Chinese sons and daughters at home and abroad to unite their hearts and minds, forge ahead bravely, and gather strength for a new journey of the "15th Five-Year Plan" and to expand the bright prospects of Chinese-style modernization.
"Inspiring the common national sentiment of all Chinese sons and daughters"
"President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message makes us feel the care from our ancestral country and also makes us feel excited and proud of the great achievements of our ancestral country!" Yuan Yi (原毅), Executive Vice President of the Russian Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China and the Russian Federation of Overseas Chinese, who has listened to President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message at the first opportunity for many years, said that 2025 is the closing year of the "14th Five-Year Plan," and China has successfully completed its goals and tasks, taking steady steps on the new journey of Chinese-style modernization. "The grand commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the establishment of Taiwan Retrocession Day, and a series of major events have inspired the common national sentiment of all Chinese sons and daughters and gathered the tremendous strength to promote the construction of a strong country, achieve the reunification of the motherland, and jointly achieve national rejuvenation."
"Listening to President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message has become an important part of overseas Chinese welcoming the New Year." Zhang Xiaochun (张小春), President of the Brazil Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China, said that President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message allows overseas Chinese in foreign lands to more clearly perceive the pulse of the development of their ancestral country and feel the emotional connection of resonating with their ancestral country. "The New Year message mentioned 'nourishing the spiritual home with culture' and 'creating and sharing a better life,' which left a deep impression on me. These powerful words fully reflect that China always puts the people in the most important position."
"From the Tianwen-2 (天问二号) and other scientific and technological innovation achievements to the popularity of Wukong (悟空) and Nezha (哪吒) around the world, to the protection of the rights and interests of new employment groups and other details of people's livelihood, President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message makes me truly feel the warmth and feelings of national development." Zhang Bingyang (张冰洋), Executive Chairman of the China General Chamber of Commerce in the United Arab Emirates, said that the New Year message also mentioned "continuing to open our arms to embrace the world," demonstrating China's firm stance of adhering to opening up and cooperation. "China's opening up not only demonstrates the responsibility of a major country but also builds a broad development platform for us. We will give full play to our role as a bridge and link and devote our efforts to China-UAE exchanges and cooperation."
Chen Shengli (陈胜利), Chairman of the Spanish China General Chamber of Commerce, said that over the years, President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message has always been full of deep feelings of putting the people at the center. "The simple and sincere blessings and heartwarming words go straight to the heart, making us, who are far away in a foreign land, full of confidence and expectations for the opening of a new chapter in the '15th Five-Year Plan' and for the beautiful future of our ancestral country."
"The stability and certainty released are deeply encouraging"
Li Guixiong (李桂雄), Vice Chairman of the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of the Federation of Industry Associations, said that from the rapid development of artificial intelligence large models to the emergence of "Chinese wisdom" in cutting-edge fields such as quantum computing and brain-computer interfaces, China's technological innovation achieved systematic breakthroughs in 2025. These achievements not only injected surging momentum into high-quality development but also greatly enhanced the national pride of overseas Chinese. "China has always adhered to true multilateralism and is committed to building a community with a shared future for mankind. It is not only a 'stabilizing anchor' for maintaining world peace but also a 'main engine' for promoting global development. Through a series of pragmatic measures such as high-quality joint construction of the 'Belt and Road,' holding important exhibitions, and expanding the 'circle of friends' for visa-free travel, China has brought tangible development opportunities to countries around the world, including Thailand."
"In the past year, China's economy has moved steadily on the track of high-quality development, and the industrial structure has continued to be optimized, providing valuable stability and certainty for the world economy. In Egypt, cooperation projects between Chinese enterprises and technology in the fields of new energy and infrastructure have been steadily advancing, which not only promotes local development but also enhances the reputation of Chinese brands," said Wang Peizhong (王培中), President of the China General Chamber of Commerce in Egypt.
"At present, the world is intertwined with changes and chaos, and uncertainty has risen significantly. China adheres to high-quality development and deepening reform and opening up to cope with risks and challenges, and the stability and certainty released are deeply encouraging," said Wang Yaozhen (王耀箴), Vice Chairman of the Federation of German-Chinese Societies. In the past year, China's new breakthroughs in the fields of artificial intelligence, green energy, and advanced manufacturing have expanded new space for pragmatic cooperation between China and Germany and also provided a more stable and predictable environment for the development of overseas Chinese in Germany. "In the future, we will be based on the people and contribute the strength of the overseas Chinese community to the steady and long-term development of bilateral relations through cultural exchanges, youth cooperation, and pragmatic dialogue."
"Contributing the strength of overseas Chinese to the prosperity and development of our ancestral country"
"Being overseas, we truly feel the broad opportunities brought by China's high-quality development for China-foreign economic and trade cooperation." Li Bo (李博), Executive Vice President and Head of the Youth Chamber of Commerce of the Korea China General Chamber of Commerce, said that President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message once again shows that China always opens its arms to embrace the world and actively leads the process of multilateral cooperation. In 2025, China continued to build consensus and contribute wisdom to the economic recovery and regional development of the Asia-Pacific region. In 2026, a series of APEC meetings will be held in China, which fully reflects the international community's high recognition of China's development path and governance capabilities. Overseas Chinese will continue to play a role as a bridge and link and contribute the strength of the overseas Chinese community to promoting China-foreign exchanges and cooperation and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Dong Gang (董钢), head of the Cape Town Chinese Culture and Arts Association in South Africa, said that 2026 is the opening year of the "15th Five-Year Plan," and President Xi Jinping's (习近平) New Year message makes overseas Chinese full of longing for the development of their ancestral country. It is believed that China will continue to make breakthroughs in new quality productive forces and technological innovation, providing more technical solutions for South-South cooperation. "In the new year, we overseas Chinese will always be of one heart and one mind with our ancestral country, practice the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind with practical actions, forge ahead bravely on the broad stage of China-South Africa cooperation, add bricks and tiles to the friendship between the two countries, and also contribute the strength of overseas Chinese to the prosperity and development of our ancestral country."
"Anchoring a new journey and jointly drawing a beautiful future. Overseas Chinese living abroad are not only witnesses of China-foreign exchanges but also promoters of pragmatic cooperation. We will continue to give play to the unique advantages of integrating China and foreign countries, actively build bridges, promote the docking of high-quality resources in the countries where we live with the Chinese market, promote mutual learning between civilizations, focus on emerging industries to carry out cross-border innovation cooperation, so that the wisdom and strength of overseas Chinese can become a solid link of China-foreign friendship, and contribute our meager strength to building a community with a shared future for mankind." Zheng Chengyi (郑成义), Honorary President of the Austrian Chinese Federation, said that in the new year, he hopes that China's high-quality development will write a new chapter, hopes that people's livelihood security will be more heartwarming, and even more looks forward to China continuing to play a constructive role in global governance.
(This newspaper Beijing (北京), Moscow (莫斯科), Rio de Janeiro (里约热内卢), Dubai (迪拜), Madrid (马德里), Bangkok (曼谷), Cairo (开罗), Berlin (柏林), Seoul (首尔), Johannesburg (约翰内斯堡) December 31st dispatch reporter Zhou Zhou (周輖), Yu Hongjian (于宏建), Chen Yiming (陈一鸣), Guan Kejiang (管克江), Yan Huan (颜欢), Zhang Niansheng (章念生), Huang Peizhao (黄培昭), Liu Zhonghua (刘仲华), Mang Jiuchen (莽九晨), Zheng Xiang (郑翔))
Return to TopThe year 2025 marks the conclusion of the "14th Five-Year Plan." Over the past five years, we have strived forward with determination and courage, overcoming numerous difficulties and challenges, successfully completing our goals and tasks, and taking steady steps on the new journey of Chinese-style modernization. China's total economic volume has continuously crossed new thresholds, and is expected to reach 140 trillion yuan this year. Our economic strength, scientific and technological strength, defense strength, and comprehensive national strength have reached new levels. Lush mountains and clear waters have become a beautiful backdrop, and the people's sense of gain, happiness, and security has continuously increased. The past five years have been extraordinary, and the achievements have not come easily. Everyone has worked hard, strived for progress, cultivated, and dedicated themselves, creating a thriving China. I pay tribute to every hard-working individual!
What is unforgettable this year is that we solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and established Taiwan Retrocession Day. The grand national ceremony was majestic and powerful, and the glory of victory will be forever recorded in history, inspiring all Chinese sons and daughters to remember history, cherish the memory of the martyrs, cherish peace, and create the future, and unite the mighty force of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
We rely on innovation to empower high-quality development. The deep integration of science and technology with industry, innovative achievements are emerging in a competitive manner, artificial intelligence large models are catching up with each other, and new breakthroughs have been made in independent research and development of chips. China has become one of the fastest-growing economies in terms of innovation. Tianwen-2 (天问二号) has started its "star chasing" journey, the Ya'an (雅安) Hydropower Project has commenced construction, and the first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier has officially entered service. Humanoid robots show off their "Kung Fu mode," and drones perform dazzling "fireworks." Innovation and creation have spawned new quality productive forces and made life more colorful.
We nourish our spiritual home with culture. The enthusiasm for museums and cultural heritage continues to rise, new members are added to the World Heritage list, Wukong (悟空) and Nezha (哪吒) are popular around the world, and ancient Chinese styles have become the "top aesthetic" in the eyes of young people. The cultural tourism market is booming, the "City Super" ("城超") and "Village Super" ("村超") are lively and extraordinary, and winter sports ignite winter passion. The integration of tradition and modernity makes Chinese culture shine even more brilliantly.
We jointly create and share a better life. I attended celebrations in Tibet (西藏) and Xinjiang (新疆). From the snowy plateau to the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains (天山), people of all ethnic groups are connected heart to heart, embracing each other like pomegranate seeds. Everyone uses white hadas and enthusiastic songs and dances to express their love for the motherland and their praise for happiness. People's livelihood is no small matter, and every branch and leaf is always of concern. In the past year, the rights and interests of new employment groups have been further guaranteed, age-friendly renovations have brought convenience to the elderly, and families with children have received an additional 300 yuan per month in subsidies. Firewood, rice, oil, salt, and the four seasons of the year, every "small family" is full of vitality, and China, this "big family," is thriving.
We continue to open our hearts to embrace the world. The SCO Tianjin (天津) Summit and the Global Women's Summit were successfully held, and the entire island of the Hainan (海南) Free Trade Port was closed for operation. To better address climate change, China announced a new round of nationally determined contributions. Following the "Three Major Initiatives," I proposed a global governance initiative to promote the construction of a more just and reasonable global governance system. Today's world is intertwined with changes and chaos, and some regions are still shrouded in war. China always stands on the right side of history and is willing to work with all countries to promote world peace and development and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Not long ago, I attended the opening ceremony of the National Games. The concerted efforts of Guangdong (粤), Hong Kong (港), and Macao (澳) are gratifying. We must unswervingly implement the "One Country, Two Systems" policy, support Hong Kong (香港) and Macao (澳门) to better integrate into the overall development of the country, and maintain long-term prosperity and stability. Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are connected by blood, and the historical trend of national reunification is unstoppable!
The Party's prosperity leads to national strength. We have carried out in-depth study and education on implementing the spirit of the Central Eight-Point Regulation, established credibility by moving a tree, strictly governed the Party and administered the country, removed corruption and promoted self-revolution, and the Party's conduct and government conduct have continued to improve. We must strengthen our original aspirations and missions, persevere and make continuous efforts, continue to answer the "cave dwelling question" of Yan'an (延安), and write a contemporary answer worthy of the people.
The year 2026 marks the beginning of the "15th Five-Year Plan." Those who start sharply must plan for the end, and those who succeed must first plan for the beginning. We must anchor our goals and tasks, strengthen our confidence, take advantage of the momentum, and vigorously promote high-quality development, further comprehensively deepen reform and opening up, promote common prosperity for all the people, and continue to write new chapters in the Chinese miracle.
Dreaming of mountains and seas, we do not feel the distance; the road ahead is long, let us stride forward. Let us show the courage to whip the horse and spur it on, stimulate the vitality of ten thousand horses galloping, maintain the momentum of never stopping, and work together for our dreams and for happiness, and turn grand visions into beautiful realities.
Xinhua News Agency, Beijing (北京), December 31st. On the eve of the New Year, President Xi Jinping (习近平) delivered his New Year's message for 2026 through the China Media Group and the Internet. The full text is as follows:
Hello everyone! As the years change, new chapters are written. As the New Year approaches, I extend my best wishes to you all from Beijing (北京)!
The year 2025 marks the conclusion of the "14th Five-Year Plan." Over the past five years, we have strived forward with determination and courage, overcoming numerous difficulties and challenges, successfully completing our goals and tasks, and taking steady steps on the new journey of Chinese-style modernization. China's total economic volume has continuously crossed new thresholds, and is expected to reach 140 trillion yuan this year. Our economic strength, scientific and technological strength, defense strength, and comprehensive national strength have reached new levels. Lush mountains and clear waters have become a beautiful backdrop, and the people's sense of gain, happiness, and security has continuously increased. The past five years have been extraordinary, and the achievements have not come easily. Everyone has worked hard, strived for progress, cultivated, and dedicated themselves, creating a thriving China. I pay tribute to every hard-working individual!
What is unforgettable this year is that we solemnly commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and established Taiwan Retrocession Day. The grand national ceremony was majestic and powerful, and the glory of victory will be forever recorded in history, inspiring all Chinese sons and daughters to remember history, cherish the memory of the martyrs, cherish peace, and create the future, and unite the mighty force of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
We rely on innovation to empower high-quality development. The deep integration of science and technology with industry, innovative achievements are emerging in a competitive manner, artificial intelligence large models are catching up with each other, and new breakthroughs have been made in independent research and development of chips. China has become one of the fastest-growing economies in terms of innovation. Tianwen-2 (天问二号) has started its "star chasing" journey, the Ya'an (雅安) Hydropower Project has commenced construction, and the first electromagnetic catapult aircraft carrier has officially entered service. Humanoid robots show off their "Kung Fu mode," and drones perform dazzling "fireworks." Innovation and creation have spawned new quality productive forces and made life more colorful.
We nourish our spiritual home with culture. The enthusiasm for museums and cultural heritage continues to rise, new members are added to the World Heritage list, Wukong (悟空) and Nezha (哪吒) are popular around the world, and ancient Chinese styles have become the "top aesthetic" in the eyes of young people. The cultural tourism market is booming, the "City Super" ("城超") and "Village Super" ("村超") are lively and extraordinary, and winter sports ignite winter passion. The integration of tradition and modernity makes Chinese culture shine even more brilliantly.
We jointly create and share a better life. I attended celebrations in Tibet (西藏) and Xinjiang (新疆). From the snowy plateau to the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains (天山), people of all ethnic groups are connected heart to heart, embracing each other like pomegranate seeds. Everyone uses white hadas and enthusiastic songs and dances to express their love for the motherland and their praise for happiness. People's livelihood is no small matter, and every branch and leaf is always of concern. In the past year, the rights and interests of new employment groups have been further guaranteed, age-friendly renovations have brought convenience to the elderly, and families with children have received an additional 300 yuan per month in subsidies. Firewood, rice, oil, salt, and the four seasons of the year, every "small family" is full of vitality, and China, this "big family," is thriving.
We continue to open our hearts to embrace the world. The SCO Tianjin (天津) Summit and the Global Women's Summit were successfully held, and the entire island of the Hainan (海南) Free Trade Port was closed for operation. To better address climate change, China announced a new round of nationally determined contributions. Following the "Three Major Initiatives," I proposed a global governance initiative to promote the construction of a more just and reasonable global governance system. 当今世界变乱交织，一些地区仍被战火笼罩。China always stands on the right side of history and is willing to work with all countries to promote world peace and development and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
Not long ago, I attended the opening ceremony of the National Games. The concerted efforts of Guangdong (粤), Hong Kong (香港), and Macao (澳门) are gratifying. We must unswervingly implement the "One Country, Two Systems" policy, support Hong Kong (香港) and Macao (澳门) to better integrate into the overall development of the country, and maintain long-term prosperity and stability. Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait are connected by blood, and the historical trend of national reunification is unstoppable!
The Party's prosperity leads to national strength. We have carried out in-depth study and education on implementing the spirit of the Central Eight-Point Regulation, **徙木立信** (xǐ mù lì xìn - "move wood establish trust," to establish credibility through a small act), strictly governed the Party and administered the country, removed corruption and promoted self-revolution, and the Party's conduct and government conduct have continued to improve. We must strengthen our original aspirations and missions, **持之以恒** (chí zhī yǐ héng - "persist with it," persevere), **久久为功** (jiǔ jiǔ wéi gōng - "long time makes merit," persistent effort leads to success), continue to answer the "cave dwelling question" of Yan'an (延安), and write a contemporary answer worthy of the people.
The year 2026 marks the beginning of the "15th Five-Year Plan." **锐始者必图其终** (ruì shǐ zhě bì tú qí zhōng - "sharp starters must plan their end," a good beginning is not enough, one must plan for the end), **成功者先计于始** (chéng gōng zhě xiān jì yú shǐ - "successful people first plan their beginning," success depends on careful planning from the start). We must anchor our goals and tasks, strengthen our confidence, take advantage of the momentum, and vigorously promote high-quality development, further comprehensively deepen reform and opening up, promote common prosperity for all the people, and continue to write new chapters in the Chinese miracle.
Dreaming of mountains and seas, we do not feel the distance; the road ahead is long, let us stride forward. Let us show the courage to **跃马扬鞭** (yuè mǎ yáng biān - "leap horse raise whip," to ride at full speed), stimulate the vitality of **万马奔腾** (wàn mǎ bēn téng - "ten thousand horses galloping," a scene of great vigor and vitality), maintain the momentum of **马不停蹄** (mǎ bù tíng tí - "horse doesn't stop hooves," without stopping), and work together for our dreams and for happiness, and turn grand visions into beautiful realities.
The sun of the New Year is about to rise. I wish our motherland magnificent mountains and rivers, abundant land, and the divine land bathed in the morning glow! I wish you all joy in your hearts, success in your careers, and all things can be expected!
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st. Wang Yi (王毅), member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, spoke on the phone with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun (赵显) on December 31st at his request.
Wang Yi (王毅) stated that under the strategic guidance of the two countries' heads of state, China-South Korea relations have emerged from a low point, returned to the right track, and are steadily showing a positive development trend. China attaches importance to and welcomes President Lee Jae-myung's (李在明) visit to China and believes that with the joint efforts of both sides, this visit will promote new progress in the China-South Korea strategic cooperative partnership.
Wang Yi (王毅) said that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Facing the attempts by some political forces in Japan to 开历史倒车 (kāi lìshǐ dàochē - "drive history in reverse," to turn back the wheel of history; to undo progress), and overturn the verdict on their crimes of aggression and colonialism, it is believed that the South Korean side will uphold an attitude responsible to history and the people, adopt a correct stance, and safeguard international justice, including adhering to the one-China principle on the Taiwan issue.
Cho Hyun (赵显) stated that President Lee Jae-myung (李在明) attaches great importance to cooperation with China and is firmly committed to developing the South Korea-China strategic cooperative partnership. The South Korean side is willing to work closely with the Chinese side to ensure that President Lee Jae-myung's (李在明) visit to China is smooth and successful. South Korea's respect for the one-China position will not change.
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Nanjing, December 31st.
Senior Colonel Li Xi (李熹) of the Navy, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command, stated that the "Just Mission-2025" exercise organized by the People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command (中国人民解放军东部战区) has successfully completed all tasks and comprehensively tested the integrated joint combat capabilities of the troops. The theater troops remain on high alert at all times, continuously strengthen military training and preparedness, resolutely thwart "Taiwan independence" separatist attempts and external interference plots, and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Return to TopThis newspaper's Beijing (北京) dispatch on December 31st (Reporter Ji Fang (季芳), People's Daily Online reporter Yang Lei (杨磊)) On December 31st, the Outstanding Sports Culture Works Release Event was held in the People's Network Original Intention Reporting Hall of the People's Daily New Media Building.
The event was jointly hosted by the Bureau of Cultivation and Guidance of the Central Propaganda Department (中宣部文明培育局), the Publicity Department of the General Administration of Sport of China (国家体育总局宣传司), and the Media Organization Management Department of the National Radio and Television Administration (国家广播电视总局传媒机构管理司), and organized by People's Daily Online (人民网), Beijing Sport University (北京体育大学), and China Spiritual Civilization Network (中国精神文明网). Responsible comrades from the Office of the Central Spiritual Civilization Construction Steering Commission (中央精神文明建设办公室), the General Administration of Sport of China (国家体育总局), the National Radio and Television Administration (国家广播电视总局), and the People's Daily (人民日报社), as well as local offices of spiritual civilization construction, sports bureaus, radio and television bureaus, sports industry organizations, major internet platforms, universities, and media, and more than 100 other guests attended the event.
In June 2025, the Bureau of Cultivation and Guidance of the Central Propaganda Department (中宣部文明培育局), together with the Publicity Department of the General Administration of Sport of China (国家体育总局宣传司) and the Media Organization Management Department of the National Radio and Television Administration (国家广播电视总局传媒机构管理司), jointly launched a public service advertising and Chinese sports story collection campaign, collecting more than 8,000 works. After strict and fair review and selection, 120 outstanding works, including the "Chinese Sports Spirit Promotional Video | Go China!" and the "Chinese Kung Fu" bilingual micro-documentary series, were selected for recommendation.
Return to TopXinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31st. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson announced on the 31st: At the invitation of Wang Yi (王毅), Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dar (达尔) of Pakistan will visit China from January 3rd to 5th, 2026, and hold the seventh China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue.
Return to TopFrom enterprise workshops to fields, from university classrooms to community squares... In recent days, lecture teams from Jilin, Jiangxi, Yunnan, Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (新疆生产建设兵团), and other regions and units have gone deep into the grassroots to carry out multi-level and diversified lectures, allowing the spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China to take root, blossom, and bear fruit at the grassroots level.
Improving theoretical understanding is the prerequisite for grassroots lecturers to do a good job in lecturing.
Theoretical lectures, group discussions, on-site teaching... From December 3rd to 5th, the Jilin Province (吉林省) Grassroots Theoretical Lecture Backbone Training Class on Studying, Publicizing, and Implementing the Spirit of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China was held in Songyuan City (松原市). More than 150 theoretical publicity workers, university ideological and political course teachers, integrated media editors and reporters, and theoretical volunteer representatives participated. The trainees shared their experience in publicity work and further consolidated their consensus on action.
"This training class made me pay attention to the requirements of differentiated, interactive, and targeted lectures, using everyday language from the fields to thoroughly explain policies, and bringing the spirit of the plenary session to the hearts of the people," said Ma Lin (马琳), publicity committee member of Tuchengzi Manchu and Korean Ethnic Township (土城子满族朝鲜族乡) in Changyi District (昌邑区), Jilin City (吉林市).
At Jilin University (吉林大学), members of the doctoral student lecture group combined their own majors to carry out 15 lectures for teachers and students. At the Changchun City (长春市) "Study Times" Lecture Academy, citizens listened to the lecturers explain the main goals of economic and social development during the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" period. In Fusong County (抚松县), Baishan City (白山市), the lecture "Talking about the good policies for the elderly in the Fourth Plenary Session" attracted elderly fitness team members to participate. In Wangqi Town (旺起镇), Fengman District (丰满区), Jilin City (吉林市), Zhao Hongliang (赵宏良), an employee of the local power supply station, while helping elderly villagers deal with electric heating failures, explained: "The plenary session proposed strengthening basic public services, which is to make the heating warm in our old folks' homes..." As of December 29, Jilin Province (吉林省) had carried out more than 18,000 grassroots lectures on the spirit of the plenary session.
To make the lectures resonate in people's minds, the key is to explain the principles to the hearts of the people.
"What is agricultural and rural modernization?" "Will we farmers be unable to keep up with modernization?"... Facing everyone's questions, a special lecture at the New Era Civilization Practice Institute in Heyuan Township (荷源乡), Lichuan County (黎川县), Fuzhou City (抚州市), Jiangxi Province (江西省) provided answers.
Wang Zhigang (王志刚), the leader of the "Old Squad Leader" lecture team in Lichuan County (黎川县), sat among the villagers and used a local accent full of earthy flavor to translate the macro requirements proposed by the plenary session, such as "improving the social governance system," into "nearby principles" that everyone could understand and remember. "Agricultural and rural modernization means making village roads smoother, making it easier for the elderly to see doctors, making neighborhood conflicts easier to resolve, and making the living environment safer." His words went straight to the hearts of the people and resonated with the villagers.
This "Old Squad Leader" lecture team is a comprehensive team integrating policy lectures and diversified services. In order to be more down-to-earth, the lecture team moved the classroom from the conference room to farmers' courtyards and cultural squares, and wrote the urgent and difficult problems of the masses into the "Public Opinion Ledger" and followed up to solve them.
Combining local cultural characteristics and innovating forms will make the lectures more "vital."
"To revitalize the industry, outstanding people are needed." On December 25, in the "Baili·Chunqiu" (百里·春秋) Spring City Reception Hall in Kunming (昆明), Yunnan (云南), a special lecture was underway, accompanied by the melody of the National Southwest Associated University (西南联大) school song. From the spirit of the Associated University to the memories of Cuihu (翠湖), to the development of urban cultural tourism, the lecturer spoke eloquently.
"Coffee trees grow in Yunnan (云南) and are also imbued with the local cultural atmosphere." As a representative of the newly employed group, Liu Nian (刘念), the founder of Yunnan Liu Nian Coffee, felt deeply after listening to the lecture.
The Yunnan Provincial Party Committee Lecture Group traveled to all 16 prefectures (cities) and held 47 report meetings and 58 symposium lectures. Various places also "came up with clever tricks": in the Dai ethnic courtyard in Xishuangbanna (西双版纳), young people sat around and talked earnestly, discussing taking root in the border areas; Dali (大理) compiled the spirit of the plenary session into "Bai Opera" (白族大本曲), singing it to the hearts of the masses in local dialects; "Yun Xiaoxuan" (云小宣) and other AI virtual lecturers used novel forms to let the spirit of the plenary session "fly into the homes of ordinary people."
In recent days, the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (新疆生产建设兵团) Lecture Group has continued to carry out lectures to promote the spirit of the plenary session to go deeper and more solid.
In Lihua Community (丽华社区), Sixty-Eighth Regiment, Fourth Division of the Corps, members of the Corps Lecture Group walked into the Party-Masses Service Center and sat down with employees and the masses to exchange learning experiences. Focusing on the deployment requirements of "improving community governance" in the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" proposal, they combined the actual situation of the community to answer questions, solve problems, and offer suggestions.
"This lecture was very 'thirst-quenching'." Luo Huiqin (罗惠琴), secretary of the Party branch of Lihua Community (丽华社区), said, "Our direction for doing grassroots work is clearer and we have more confidence. We must build the community step by step into a common home where everyone is willing to come, live in peace, and live comfortably."
The Corps Lecture Group also regards youth lectures as a key task, going into Xinjiang Institute of Technology (新疆工业学院), Xinjiang Polytechnic Vocational University (新疆理工职业大学), Shuanghe Vocational Technical College (双河职业技术学院) and other institutions to interpret the spirit of the plenary session and respond to students' growth concerns. "My biggest feeling is that I was born in the right time and have a responsibility on my shoulders." Wang Zimo (王子墨), a student at Xinjiang Institute of Technology (新疆工业学院), said that he must study professional knowledge well and integrate his personal ideals into practice.
(Xinhua News Agency, Beijing, December 31)
Return to TopBy: 本报记者 寇江泽 付 文 姚雪青 窦 皓
"Since the installation of the sound barriers, residents of the community can finally get a good night's sleep." Ye Cuilin (叶萃林), deputy director of the neighborhood committee of Qinting Lakeside Community (琴亭湖畔小区) in Linhu Community (临湖社区), Jin'an District (晋安区), Fuzhou (福州市), Fujian Province (福建省), said with satisfaction.
Noise pollution prevention and control is an important part of ecological civilization construction and ecological environment protection. In recent years, China has continued to promote noise pollution prevention and control, continuously consolidating the foundation of sound environment management, accelerating the improvement of the noise pollution prevention and control management system, vigorously promoting departmental coordination and linkage, and achieving positive progress in noise pollution control. The sound environment quality of cities across the country has continued to improve.
Improving the regulatory system——
All prefecture-level and above cities have completed the division of responsibilities for noise pollution prevention and control, basically achieving "common noise problems are managed by someone."
The Qinting Elevated Bridge (琴亭高架桥), which connects Xiufeng Road (秀峰路) in Jin'an District (晋安区) with Wusi Road (五四路) in Gulou District (鼓楼区), is located on the south side of Qinting Lakeside Community (琴亭湖畔小区), with the closest straight-line distance being about 100 meters. The road was built before the residential area was developed, and residents living on the side of the community closest to the road were greatly troubled by traffic noise.
"I live on the 21st floor, and the noise is very loud at night, making it difficult to fall asleep," Ye Cuilin (叶萃林) recalled. In order to reduce the noise, the residents of the community tried every possible means, but they were all temporary solutions. Helpless, they reported the situation to the 12345 public service platform.
Zheng Hui (郑辉), deputy director of the Bridge Management Office of the Municipal Engineering Center of the Fuzhou (福州市) Urban Management Committee, immediately went to the site for investigation, accompanied by a third-party professional testing agency. "In order to accurately determine the noise level, we selected the two buildings closest to the elevated bridge in the community and conducted tests at 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM," Zheng Hui (郑辉) said.
The test report showed that the daytime noise value in the area was 59-65 decibels, which meets the daytime limit of 70 decibels for Class 4a functional areas of the sound environment quality standard; however, the nighttime noise value was 61-65 decibels, exceeding the nighttime limit of 55 decibels, confirming the existence of nighttime noise disturbance.
Soon, the Municipal Engineering Center formulated a rectification plan and set up more than 400 meters of sound barriers while meeting the load-bearing requirements of the bridge components. "Our on-site investigation found that the asphalt pavement of the main and auxiliary lanes of the Qinting Elevated Bridge (琴亭高架桥) has been in use for many years and is approaching the designed service life. Pavement wear may lead to increased noise when vehicles pass," Zheng Hui (郑辉) said. The Municipal Center milled the bridge deck and re-laid the asphalt overlay, reducing vehicle noise by improving road conditions.
With multiple renovation measures taken simultaneously, residents of Qinting Lakeside Community (琴亭湖畔小区) finally regained the long-lost tranquility. Since 2021, the Fujian Provincial Department of Ecology and Environment (福建省生态环境厅) has jointly launched the "Silent Night Guardian" special action with public security, housing and construction, transportation, market supervision and other departments, focusing on rectifying nighttime noise disturbance from construction, social life, and transportation. After continuous management, the number of noise complaints from various channels has decreased by about 30% compared with before the rectification.
Noise pollution prevention and control is closely related to the lives of the people. "Unlike the regional nature of air pollution and the watershed nature of water pollution, noise pollution has the characteristics of locality, sensitivity, and non-accumulation. At the same time, there are a large number of various noise sources, involving as many as dozens of regulatory departments, making governance more complicated," said Lu Lu (卢璐), deputy director of the Noise Management Division of the Atmospheric Environment Department of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部大气环境司). In order to meet the people's need for a harmonious and peaceful environment, the ecological environment department has made great efforts to solve the problem of noise pollution.
Clarify "who is in charge." "In the past, noise complaints often encountered the phenomenon of 'passing the buck,' which stemmed from unclear responsibilities," Lu Lu (卢璐) introduced. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部), together with relevant departments, promoted local governments to clarify the division of management responsibilities for the four types of noise: industrial, construction, transportation, and social life. "As of the end of 2024, except for Sansha City (三沙市), all 338 prefecture-level and above cities have completed the division of responsibilities for noise pollution prevention and control, initially forming an all-round, multi-level departmental responsibility division system, basically achieving 'common noise problems are managed by someone.'"
Clarify "what standards to manage according to." "The sound environment functional area, as the basis for the implementation of sound environment quality standards, is also an important basis for strengthening noise pollution prevention and control and improving sound environment quality," Lu Lu (卢璐) said. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) guided local areas to carry out the delineation of sound environment functional areas. In 2023, 338 prefecture-level and above cities and 1,822 county-level cities achieved full coverage of sound environment functional area delineation for the first time. At the same time, it organized the evaluation of the delineation of sound environment functional areas. At the end of 2023, all prefecture-level and above cities completed the evaluation and carried out rectification.
In addition, since 2023, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) has organized 10 regions, including Chaoyang District (朝阳区) in Beijing (北京市) and Nanjing (南京市) in Jiangsu Province (江苏省), to carry out pilot projects for the delineation of concentrated areas of noise-sensitive buildings. In addition to the pilot cities, 15 prefecture-level cities and 31 county-level cities across the country have delineated concentrated areas of noise-sensitive buildings. "As of now, the total area of concentrated areas of noise-sensitive buildings delineated across the country exceeds 1,000 square kilometers," Lu Lu (卢璐) said.
Innovative management methods——
Promote the inclusion of industrial noise in pollutant discharge permit management, strengthen the management of construction noise, and promote the automation of noise monitoring.
In the command hall of the Qinhuai Ecological Environment Bureau (秦淮生态环境局) in Nanjing (南京市), Jiangsu Province (江苏省), there are two special maps. Through information technology, staff can not only "see" the noise, but also "manage" it.
The first "noise heat map" clearly shows the distribution of noise complaints in the jurisdiction. "The data source is public complaints, which is also a map of public opinion on noise management that is closer to the real feelings of the public," introduced Liu Hu (刘虎), chief of the Pollution Prevention and Control Section of the Qinhuai Ecological Environment Bureau (秦淮生态环境局) in Nanjing (南京市). The deeper the red color, the more complaints there are.
The other map, "Delineation Map of Concentrated Areas of Noise-Sensitive Buildings in Qinhuai District (秦淮区噪声敏感建筑物集中区域划定图)," includes buildings that need to be kept quiet for residential, scientific research, medical and health, and cultural and educational purposes. Behaviors that generate noise in the area will be strictly controlled.
"It can be seen that the areas with more complaints in the noise heat map all fall within the noise-sensitive area," introduced Song Xinli (宋新莉), deputy director of the Qinhuai Ecological Environment Bureau (秦淮生态环境局). This is not only the key direction for the ecological environment department to carry out noise management, but also adds a handle for on-site guidance and management.
In the summer of 2025, when the Qinhuai Ecological Environment Comprehensive Administrative Law Enforcement Bureau (秦淮生态环境综合行政执法局) was conducting routine monitoring of the heat map, it found that the Xiwuhuali area (西五华里片区) in its jurisdiction suddenly turned "red" - with more than 50 complaints in one month. Many residents reported that there was a large construction site nearby, with excavators digging and dumping soil during the day, and large trucks carrying soil in and out at night, generating noise that affected their daily lives.
Wu Zhibin (吴志斌), deputy director of the Law Enforcement Bureau, immediately led a team to the site to stake out, and the situation was indeed as the residents reported. "After repeated communication, the construction unit used new energy electric vehicles to replace heavy diesel vehicles, improved the entrance and exit channels for soil trucks, and also erected a thick and dense 'sky curtain' construction site dust prevention net. According to on-site monitoring, the noise was reduced by 30%, the dust was reduced by 80%, and the public was satisfied."
Various regions and departments have come up with new tricks, practical measures, and tough measures to continuously promote noise pollution prevention and control.
In Jining (济宁市), Shandong Province (山东省), in order to reduce construction noise disturbance from the source, the local government conducts special guidance on noise pollution prevention and control for construction units before the start of construction projects, and strictly verifies noise reduction facilities. At the same time, automatic noise monitoring equipment is installed in key construction areas to achieve real-time monitoring of construction noise, automatic data uploading, and over-standard warning. Once noise exceeds the standard, law enforcement personnel rush to the scene to deal with it as soon as possible, effectively curbing the high incidence of construction noise disturbance.
——Innovate refined management and control methods. Promote the inclusion of industrial noise in pollutant discharge permit management. During the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, basic coverage of more than 200,000 industrial enterprises was achieved, effectively implementing the main responsibility of noise-producing units. Strengthen the management of construction noise, and issue the "Guidance Catalog of Low-Noise Construction Equipment." By promoting advanced technologies, guide construction enterprises to strengthen the initiative to prevent and control noise from the source. Beijing (北京) and Shanghai (上海) and other places have innovatively adopted foundation pit air film technology to prevent noise and dust.
——Focus on solving key problems. In response to noise problems that are of high public concern and repeatedly complained about, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) continued to carry out the scheduling of typical cases of noise management "thousands of households" complaints during the "14th Five-Year Plan" period, promoting the solution of more than 3,100 noise problems of key concern to the people. Provincial ecological environment departments have established a supervision mechanism for typical noise complaint cases by reference, realizing national, provincial, municipal, and district/county collaborative linkage.
——Promote the automation of noise monitoring. By the end of 2024, all 338 prefecture-level and above cities had completed the construction of automatic monitoring capacity for sound environment quality in functional areas, with a total of 4,005 stations built, and the automation rate increased to 100%, realizing the transformation from manual monitoring to automatic monitoring. "24-hour uninterrupted real-time monitoring can instantly capture and accurately portray sudden noise and nighttime noise," Lu Lu (卢璐) introduced.
At the same time, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) organized the China National Environmental Monitoring Centre (中国环境监测总站) and other units to carry out soundprint collection and database construction of natural sound, industrial, and construction noise sources. "Standard noise soundprints are the basis for improving noise source tracing and analysis capabilities. At present, more than 60% of the automatic monitoring stations for sound environment quality in functional areas have initially possessed soundprint recognition functions, gradually promoting the transformation from 'hearing' to 'understanding'," Lu Lu (卢璐) said.
With effective measures, the results are gradually showing. The "China Noise Pollution Prevention and Control Report (2025)" recently released by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) shows that in 2024, the daytime compliance rate of sound environment functional areas in cities across the country was 95.8%, and the nighttime compliance rate was 88.2% (both were manual monitoring). "In the past 5 years, the daytime and nighttime compliance rates of sound environment functional areas across the country have shown an upward trend, and the overall sound environment quality of cities has improved," Lu Lu (卢璐) said.
Explore social co-governance——
Create quiet communities that "eliminate noise and sleep peacefully," and promote the effective resolution of various social life noises.
As night fell in Gongshu District (拱墅区), Hangzhou (杭州市), Zhejiang Province (浙江省), Mr. Chen, who lives in Wanjia Xingcheng Community (万家星城小区), breathed a sigh of relief. "In the past, my neighbor would practice the saxophone at night, and it was really difficult for my children to have a quiet environment to do their homework."
Mr. Chen's troubles are also the troubles of many owners in the community. It turns out that many art lovers are active in Wanjia Xingcheng Community (万家星城小区). The sounds of various musical instruments were once a headache for many residents. "I was always worried when I practiced the erhu at home at night, and I felt that the tone was not right after adding a silencer pad," said Cha Zhonglong (查仲龙), a resident of the community and an erhu enthusiast, who also had his own difficulties.
How to balance the needs of both parties? Under the organization of the community, residents' representatives, together with the community and property management, held a "Black Tea Deliberation Meeting," where everyone discussed this issue.
"Faced with this new type of community conflict, simply 'banning it' is not the solution. Since there are many music lovers here, can we link up with surrounding music training institutions to create a 'shared silent space'?" After discussion, Shao Jian (邵见), secretary of the Party Committee of Wanjia Xingcheng Community (万家星城小区), hit it off with a local music institution, Good Tree Music (好树音乐), and decided to cooperate to create a "shared silent space."
Starting in May 2023, Good Tree Music (好树音乐) opens two "public welfare periods" every day for residents with community residence certificates to use the soundproof practice rooms for free. During the "silent practice periods" from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on weekdays and from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM every night, music lovers can make reservations to practice, which not only ensures the continuation of their interests, but also protects the peace of the neighborhood. "Now I can read peacefully at night, and my children can concentrate more on their studies," Mr. Chen gave a thumbs up.
Everyone is responsible for, participates in, and benefits from preventing and controlling noise pollution. "Currently, among the noise complaints collected from various channels such as the 12345 government service hotline and ecological environment complaints and reports, more than 70% come from social life noise, and most of the scenarios occur in residential communities, such as noise generated by square dancing and decoration," Lu Lu (卢璐) said.
In recent years, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) has promoted the creation of quiet communities that "eliminate noise and sleep peacefully," and encouraged various regions to actively build them. By formulating residents' covenants, neighborhood committee mediation, and equipment and facility maintenance and renovation, it has promoted the effective resolution of various social life noises.
Lu Lu (卢璐) introduced that currently, 15 provinces, including Beijing (北京) and Shanxi (山西), have built a total of 2,290 quiet communities (including quiet residential communities), benefiting more than 2 million families. The Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) organized and carried out a volunteer pilot project to "pay tribute to 'Ning' and 'Jing'," mobilizing and leveraging social forces to jointly manage noise pollution.
At key time nodes, local departments jointly organize "green escort" actions for the middle school entrance examination, college entrance examination, self-study examination, and other examinations, benefiting more than 30 million candidates annually. China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (国铁集团) continues to carry out the "silent carriage" service on high-speed trains, creating a more civilized travel space. 99 trains on high-speed railways such as Beijing-Shanghai (京沪), Beijing-Guangzhou (京广), and Beijing-Harbin (京哈) have been equipped with "silent carriages."
"Noise problems are related to thousands of households, and I hope that everyone can become a supervisor of noise and a guardian of a peaceful life," Lu Lu (卢璐) said.
Despite the significant results, the current situation of noise pollution prevention and control is still severe. "Noise problems have become a livelihood issue that the people are anxious about and eager to solve. For many years, it has ranked first in the number of ecological environment complaints, and the growth trend has not been curbed," Lu Lu (卢璐) said. With economic and social development, new noise sources are emerging one after another. At the same time, there is insufficient early prevention in urban planning, and there is a lack of necessary buffer space between residential areas, commercial areas, and transportation arteries and industrial enterprises. Noise pollution problems caused by "roads before houses," "houses before roads," and "adjacent real estate enterprises" are prominent. In addition, the Noise Pollution Prevention and Control Law has not been implemented for a long time, many supporting documents have not been fully supplemented, and some standards have not been updated for many years.
Lu Lu (卢璐) said that in the next step, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部) will work with relevant departments to jointly compile the "15th Five-Year Plan for Noise Pollution Prevention and Control Action Plan," further strengthen departmental coordination and linkage, and promote noise pollution prevention and control to advance in depth; comprehensively promote the delineation of concentrated areas of noise-sensitive buildings, strengthen the classified management of noise sources, and reduce noise from the source; carry out the evaluation of the implementation of sound environment quality standards, and promote the revision of noise standards for industry, social life, railways, etc.; continue to carry out the scheduling of typical cases of noise management "thousands of households" complaints, and solve the noise problems at the doorsteps of the people by taking points to drive the whole area.
Reporter's Notes
Starting with the personal feelings of a British journalist
"In recent years, the streets of China's capital and many other mainland Chinese cities I have visited seem to have become noticeably quieter." This change in Chinese cities has attracted the attention of Eleanor Olcott, the Beijing (北京) correspondent of the British Financial Times. "After years of being frequently awakened by noise, I have collected a batch of world-class noise-canceling earbuds, which I still use when traveling. But when I return to my home (in Beijing (北京)), they lie quietly in a drawer."
The personal experience of this British journalist is a vivid portrayal of the continuous improvement of China's sound environment quality. Preventing and controlling noise pollution is not only a small matter concerning "family affairs," but also a major matter concerning the vital interests of the people. In recent years, China has continuously consolidated the foundation of sound environment management, accelerated the improvement of the noise pollution prevention and control management system, vigorously promoted departmental coordination and linkage, and achieved positive progress in noise pollution control.
Data show that the daytime compliance rate of sound environment functional areas in cities across the country has increased from 94.6% in 2020 to 95.8% in 2024, and the nighttime compliance rate has increased from 80.1% in 2020 to 88.2% in 2024 (both are manual monitoring), and the overall sound environment quality of cities has improved.
Preventing and controlling noise pollution is a systematic project. With the rapid development of cities, the number of motor vehicles has increased, industrial activities, commercial activities, and construction activities are frequent, noise sources are complex, difficult to obtain evidence, and difficult to supervise, requiring the joint efforts of multiple departments to coordinate governance. At the same time, the people's expectations for ecological environment quality are getting higher and higher. In 2024, among the complaints and reports received by the National Ecological Environment Complaint and Report Management Platform, noise disturbance problems accounted for 59.2%, ranking first among all environmental pollution factors.
To promote the construction of ecological civilization and a beautiful China, we must further strengthen noise pollution prevention and control and solve this "long-standing and difficult" problem in the field of people's livelihood.
To advance ecological civilization construction and the building of a Beautiful China, we must further strengthen the prevention and control of noise pollution, and solve this long-standing and difficult problem in the field of people's livelihood.
We must focus on treatment, promote the implementation of pollutant discharge permits and key pollutant discharge unit management for industrial noise, implement noise control responsibilities for construction sites, increase the prevention and control of transportation noise pollution, strictly manage noise in business premises, and focus on improving management measures for community and neighborhood noise. We must also focus on prevention, strictly manage noise sources, optimize the construction layout of noise-sensitive buildings, and promote the research, development, and engineering application of new technologies, new equipment, and new materials for environmental noise control, such as noise-reducing asphalt and high-speed sound barriers. Combining prevention and treatment can achieve a 事半功倍 (shì bàn gōng bèi - "half the work, twice the effect," achieve twice the result with half the effort) effect.
Noise pollution is no small matter. Only by continuously improving the noise pollution prevention and control management system, steadily improving the level of governance, and continuously improving the quality of the acoustic environment, can we effectively safeguard the basic rights of the people to enjoy a peaceful life, and continuously enhance the people's sense of ecological and environmental gain, happiness, and security.
Return to TopLayout design: Zhang Danfeng (张丹峰)
Data source: Ministry of Ecology and Environment (生态环境部)
By: 本报记者 郑洋洋 刘军国 范昊天
The seasons change, and brilliant achievements are renewed daily.
As the clock strikes midnight, we welcome 2026 and stride into the opening year of the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan." At this historical juncture of building on past achievements and opening up future ones, the land of China resounds with an inspiring and magnificent movement of the times.
In this movement, there is the echo of history, where the chime bells that have been sleeping for thousands of years resonate with modern technology, ringing out the golden and stone sounds of the continuation of Chinese civilization.
In this movement, there is the blossoming of hope, where the voices of children crossing mountains reverberate across the vast land, stirring up the vigorous vitality of comprehensive rural revitalization.
In this movement, there is the rising of fireworks, where opera rooted in fertile soil accompanies the lights of thousands of homes, chanting a beautiful picture of livable and workable harmony and happiness.
The harmonious sounds of gold and jade, the clear and melodious voices of children, and the fragrant flow of opera tunes. These sounds intertwine and converge, forming the beautiful "Voice of China" on the New Year's stage. Whether it is a dialogue between the ancient and the modern, a concerto between the city and the countryside, or a collaboration between the stage and the fields, as the "Fifteenth Five-Year Plan" begins, let us listen attentively and witness together a vibrant and prosperous China.
-- Editor
Children's Choir, Songs Crossing the Mountains
On the eve of New Year's Day, the Cultural Activity Center of Jingle County (静乐县), Xinzhou (忻州), Shanxi (山西) was warm and inviting. On the stage of the New Year's Eve gala, the clear voices of children singing "Waves of Gulangyu" instantly grabbed the attention of the audience below—this was the New Year's gift presented by the Jingle County Children's Choir, and it was also their first time participating in the county's New Year's Eve gala.
At the Second China Choir Conference in July 2025, this choir won the national silver award in the rural ensemble singing competition.
On stage, the children of the choir focused their eyes and their mouths moved in unison. From "Waves of Gulangyu" to "China in the Lights," the songs were full of love for the motherland and longing for a better life. The finale performance of "Street Boys Choir" was even more stunning, this classic excerpt from the opera "Carmen," with its fast rhythm and complex techniques, was performed by the children in a lively and melodious manner, drawing thunderous applause from the audience below. "I didn't expect the children in our county to have such a high level of performance," said Guo Xiaoya (郭晓亚), an excited audience member.
The children in the choir have an average age of 10 years old, mainly students from the first to fifth grades, studying in 3 different schools in the county. What brought them together with music was Li Ke (李克), a 75-year-old former mezzo-soprano singer from the Central Philharmonic Orchestra.
On New Year's Day 2019, Li Ke came to Jingle (静乐) accompanied by her daughter. Initially, Li Ke donated several pianos to the local area. Later, in March of that year, she founded the Jingle County Children's Choir. "Teacher Li Ke comes from Beijing (北京) almost every month to guide the children in rehearsals, staying for at least a week each time," said Zhao Yanfeng (赵艳峰), Director of the Jingle County Education and Sports Bureau. Now the children rehearse twice a week, and their mental outlook has changed greatly.
Gao Yatong (高雅彤), a member of the choir and a fourth-grade student at Jingle County Experimental School, said: "Participating in the choir, I not only learned music knowledge, but also learned persistence and cooperation. The teacher said that choir is not a one-person performance, but requires everyone to work together."
Every week during rehearsals, the children are particularly serious. During breathing exercises, they gently close their lips and make a "doo" trembling sound, persisting for more than ten seconds; during choir practice, they repeatedly polish every note. Music brings not only honor, but also a broadening of horizons. The trip to Beijing (北京) in July 2025 was the first time many students had left Shanxi (山西). They visited Tiananmen (天安门), the Forbidden City (故宫), and entered the Science and Technology Museum. Li Ke said: "Competition results are one aspect, but these experiences are a wealth that can accompany children throughout their lives."
When the last note of the New Year's concert fell, the children made a video call to Teacher Li Ke, sharing their joy after the performance with a flurry of chatter. On the other side of the screen, the wrinkles at the corners of Li Ke's eyes were full of smiles: "As long as I can still walk, I will continue to practice with you and continue to sing."
Sending Opera to the Countryside, Singing a Happy Life
"When it dawns, hoop the dawning bucket, at noon, hoop the midday bucket, when the sun sets in the west, hoop the dusk bucket..." On the eve of New Year's Day, the Cultural Auditorium of Shizhuwan Village (石柱湾村), Qixing Street (七星街道), Xinchang County (新昌县), Shaoxing (绍兴), Zhejiang (浙江) was brightly lit and warm, and the Shaoxing Small Hundred Flowers Experimental Opera Troupe's performance of sending opera to the countryside arrived as scheduled, with the classic excerpt "Nine Jin Girl: Hooping Buckets" opening lively. On stage, the actors' singing and recitation were full of charm; off stage, bursts of laughter and applause erupted from time to time, like crisp firecrackers in winter, knocking on the door of the New Year. During the performance, whenever a humorous recitation cleverly revealed a "punchline," or a melodious singing ushered in a wonderful ending, warm applause would resound from the audience below.
"For this New Year's Eve performance, we rehearsed a month in advance, and also added some local dialects, scenes, and New Year elements from Xinchang (新昌), striving to leave a deep impression on the audience," said Shao Hongtao (邵洪涛), head of the Shaoxing Small Hundred Flowers Experimental Opera Troupe. This performance of sending opera to the countryside is a people-benefiting project of the Shaoxing Municipal Party Committee Propaganda Department to enrich the cultural life of rural people, delivering high-quality cultural resources to the doorsteps of villagers through professional performance teams.
The Cultural Auditorium of Shizhuwan Village (石柱湾村), with more than 100 seats, was crowded early. The applause that rose and fell was both a shared cultural memory and a beautiful expectation for the New Year.
In the audience, Wang Helin (王和林), a 79-year-old villager, had a happy smile on his face. He arrived at the auditorium half an hour early and sat in the first row. It turned out that the Shaoxing Small Hundred Flowers Experimental Opera Troupe had previously sent opera to the countryside to Shizhuwan Village (石柱湾村), and that performance made him reminisce endlessly. Hearing that the troupe had prepared a special opera performance for the New Year's Eve, he had been looking forward to it: "Listening to the Small Hundred Flowers sing opera face-to-face has enriched my life a lot. Being able to see their performance at my doorstep is the best gift for the New Year!"
"Performing in the countryside is the 'touchstone' and 'source of life' of opera art, not only allowing the masses to enjoy high-quality opera performances at their doorstep, but also allowing actors to hear the real evaluations of the masses, adjust the content and form of their performances in a timely manner, and hone their stage expressiveness," said Shao Hongtao (邵洪涛). For example, our performance of the Shaoxing Tanhuang classic "Nine Jin Girl: Hooping Buckets" series has been polished for 10 years and is constantly renewed in interaction with the audience.
Shao Hongtao (邵洪涛) said that the troupe goes deep into communities, villages, schools, and enterprises every year to carry out more than 400 performances of sending opera to the countryside. At the same time, the troupe also organizes "down to the countryside to gather folk songs" activities every year, drawing creative inspiration from community chats and field stories, and transforming the trivial matters between neighbors and the struggles of workers into vivid materials, making opera works more down-to-earth and more infectious.
As night deepened, the applause and laughter in the Cultural Auditorium of Shizhuwan Village (石柱湾村) gradually subsided, but the warmth ignited by art remained deeply in the hearts of the villagers.
Chime Bells Music and Dance, Music Transcending Time
What is the experience of listening to an authentic chime bells concert in a museum?
In the center of the stage, the curtain slowly opened, and a magnificent set of chime bells components came into view. As the "treasure of the museum" of the Hubei Provincial Museum (湖北省博物馆), the Zeng Houyi Chime Bells (曾侯乙编钟) are renowned worldwide for their good preservation, grand scale, superb casting technology, and musical design. Chinese and foreign tourists who come to admire its style can not only see its elegance in the museum, but also have the opportunity to listen to a wonderful chime bells concert.
On the eve of New Year's Day, more than 30 musicians and dancers from the Hubei Provincial Museum (湖北省博物馆) Chime Bells Orchestra, under the guidance of the person in charge, Luo Le (罗乐), were conducting the final rehearsals for the museum's fifth New Year's Chime Bells Concert.
How are the programs for the chime bells concert arranged? "High Mountain and Flowing Water," adapted from an ancient Qin music piece, "Lacquer Love," which tells the story of lacquer craftsmen and lacquerware... The wonderful programs performed with chime bells allow the Zeng Houyi Chime Bells (曾侯乙编钟), which had been sleeping underground for more than 2,000 years, to "speak." Luo Le (罗乐) introduced that in recent years, the Chime Bells Orchestra has not only created new pieces such as "Chime Rhythm in the Sky" and "Lying on Firewood and Tasting Gall," but also performed familiar modern classics such as "My Motherland" and "Spring Festival Overture."
On stage, various traditional musical instruments such as ancient chime bells, chime stones, drums, bamboo flutes, sheng, qin, se, and panpipes are combined with modern musical instruments, lighting, and dance, as if instantly bringing the audience into a sound field that connects the past and the present.
Ms. Zhang (张女士) from Wuhan (武汉) is a loyal audience member of the chime bells concert. "This is not only a musical feast, but also a vivid experience of deeply feeling the splendid Chinese civilization."
After the Zeng Houyi Chime Bells (曾侯乙编钟) were unearthed in Suizhou (随州), Hubei (湖北) in 1978, a chime bells research and performance team composed of archaeological experts and music experts was immediately established. In 1984, the Hubei Provincial Museum (湖北省博物馆) Chime Bells Orchestra was officially established. Since then, a special chime bells concert hall has been established, and the performance of the Chime Bells Orchestra has been fixed as an extension of the display exhibition content.
Luo Le (罗乐) introduced: "In recent years, we have continued to focus on team building, 'recruiting troops and buying horses' from professional music academies, and the number of members has now reached 48."
The addition of fresh blood continues to enhance the vitality of the orchestra. Liu Jingyi (刘静怡), born after 2000, studied drum kits in high school and majored in yangqin in college. Now she has become associated with the ancient chime bells and become a chime bells performer. "Whenever I hold the T-shaped wooden mallet and strike the chime bells to emit the magical 'one bell, two sounds,' I feel like I am having a dialogue with the ancients across time and space," said Liu Jingyi (刘静怡). Each bell has a fixed pitch, and the chime bells are played together with modern musical instruments such as pianos and violins, making the ancient chime bells more trendy and vibrant.
Today, the newly upgraded lifting stage system, stage intelligent mobile device system, and immersive surround sound system bring a refreshing immersive experience to the audience. The application of these advanced technologies showcases the unique charm of the chime bells in a more shocking way, deepening the audience's understanding and resonance with Chinese ritual and music culture.
Return to TopBy: 本报记者 施 芳 曹玲娟 洪秋婷
The beginning of a new year, 万象更新 (wàn xiàng gēng xīn - "myriad images renewed," everything takes on a completely new look). From New Year's Day to the Spring Festival, wonderful performances are staged across the country in succession. Audiences enjoy a cultural feast amidst the sounds of string and wind instruments and the dazzling stage lights, welcoming the new year with laughter and joy.
During the New Year's Day and Spring Festival "Double Festival" period, the Beijing (北京) cultural performance market is in full bloom.
The National Centre for the Performing Arts (国家大剧院) creates a festive atmosphere with diverse stage productions, offering audiences a series of cultural feasts. While traditional Peking Opera (京剧) repertoires such as "The Jewelry Pouch" ("锁麟囊") and "Silang Visits His Mother" ("四郎探母") are performed, modern Peking Opera masterpieces such as "The Red Lantern" ("红灯记"), "Shajiabang" ("沙家浜"), and "Taking Tiger Mountain by Strategy" ("智取威虎山") will also be staged in turn.
On the eve of the Minor New Year in Northern China, the Beijing (北京) New Year Concert will be staged at the Great Hall of the People (人民大会堂). This year's concert will continue the brand style formed over the past 20 years of "singing national songs and celebrating the national year," bringing together many artists of all ages to convey a warm, festive, and enthusiastic holiday atmosphere to the audience.
During the Spring Festival, the Beijing People's Art Theatre (北京人艺) will stage the grand play "Under the Red Banner" ("正红旗下"). This play differs from the traditional Beijing-style dramas of the past, without the familiar city courtyards and Beijing (北京) mansions, but instead uses red roofs and neat glazed tiles to present the characteristics of the old city of Beijing (北京) with impressionistic elements.
Opening the new year with a city music tribute, the Shanghai New Year Concert (上海新年音乐会), founded by the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra (上海交响乐团), has been an annual artistic and cultural feast on New Year's Eve since December 31, 2009, allowing Shanghai (上海) to resonate with the notes of global cities such as Vienna (维也纳) and Berlin (柏林). The 2026 Shanghai New Year Concert (2026上海新年音乐会) will be staged at the Shanghai Symphony Hall (上海交响音乐厅), focusing on the power of the new generation. Yu Long (余隆), music director of the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra (上海交响乐团), will join soprano Dai Ziyi (戴梓伊), pianist Wang Yalun (王雅伦), and violinist Cai Keyi (蔡珂宜) to inject fresh vitality into this musical feast.
From January 16 to January 17, 2026, the dance drama "Eternal Joy" ("永乐未央") will appear at the Shanghai West Bund Grand Theatre (上海西岸大剧院). The play takes the relocation and reconstruction of Yongle Palace (永乐宫) as the main narrative line, connecting four sections of "ancient architecture, murals, glazed tiles, and inheritance" in a dialogue spanning more than 700 years, integrating modern vision and traditional aesthetics, and demonstrating the enduring spiritual power of Chinese culture.
During the New Year's Day and Spring Festival, several European concerts will also be staged in Guangzhou (广州). In mid-January, the Guangzhou Opera House (广州大剧院) Opera Hall will stage the German musical "Elisabeth" ("伊丽莎白"), with a new generation of "Princess Sissi" leading the stars in a performance of courtly intrigue, continuing the artistic legend.
Return to TopLayout design: Cai Huawei (蔡华伟)
Return to TopBy: 韩 洁 王量量
Among the mountains and seas of southwestern Fujian, there are many Fujian Tulou (福建土楼). This type of architecture generally uses local materials, with rammed earth walls built layer by layer combined with a mortise-and-tenon wood frame to form an overall support system. The design of Fujian Tulou is mainly square and circular, usually arranging living spaces layer by layer around the outer perimeter of the central courtyard, making it a large building that combines communal living and defensive functions.
In 2008, Fujian Tulou was inscribed on the "World Heritage List," and with its unique architectural form, complex construction traditions, and wisdom of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature, it demonstrated the profound heritage of Chinese civilization to the world.
Witnessing the Tradition of Communal Living
According to Huang Hanmin (黄汉民), former president of the Fujian Provincial Architectural Design and Research Institute, the oldest existing Tulou with a recorded date is the Yidelou (一德楼) in Zhangpu County (漳浦县), Zhangzhou (漳州), Fujian (福建), which was first built during the Jiajing (嘉靖) period of the Ming Dynasty (明代). Tulou usually has only one main entrance, no windows on the ground floor, and small windows on the upper floors, which not only provides defensive functions, but also emphasizes the tradition of communal living through its enclosed layout.
Depending on the different geographical locations, Fujian Tulou can be divided into coastal Tulou and mountainous Tulou.
Coastal Tulou mostly use granite strips or blocks to build higher wall bases to enhance their resistance to weathering, and the rammed earth walls have a higher sand content; at the same time, to resist sea winds, the architectural form is often sturdy and stout, with shallower eaves.
Mountainous Tulou usually use local materials, mostly using river pebbles to build the wall base, with higher floors, deeper eaves, and a form that follows the undulations of the terrain.
According to the users and space types, Tulou can be divided into Southern Fujian Tulou and Hakka Tulou, etc.
Southern Fujian Tulou are mainly distributed in the Southern Fujian area, such as Eryilou (二宜楼) in Hua'an County (华安县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市). Southern Fujian Tulou are mostly unit-style, with each household having an independent entrance hall, patio, and upper and lower spaces.
Hakka Tulou are mostly distributed in the Hakka-inhabited areas of western Fujian, such as Chengqi Lou (承启楼) in Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市). Hakka Tulou generally adopt an internal corridor layout, with close connections between households.
From the perspective of plan shape, Tulou have square, circular, and special shapes, etc.
Square Tulou build houses inward along the four sides, leaving a spacious courtyard in the middle or building houses, generally with three or more floors, up to five floors.
Xishuang Lou (西爽楼) in Pinghe County (平和县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) is a classic unit-style square building, enclosed by dozens of independent units; Hegui Lou (和贵楼) in Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) belongs to the internal corridor-style square building, with five floors in the main building, a school building in the inner courtyard, and a single-story protective building outside, forming a pattern of "house wrapping the building, building wrapping the house."
The diameter of circular Tulou is mostly between 30 and 50 meters. Larger circular Tulou include Zaitian Lou (在田楼) in Zhao'an County (诏安县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市), with a diameter of about 95 meters; while Rusheng Lou (如升楼) in Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市), known as the "miniature Tulou," has a diameter of about 18 meters.
Circular Tulou can also be divided into unit-style and internal-access types according to the plane space. Longjian Lou (龙见楼) in Pinghe County (平和县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) is a unit-style circular building with an outer diameter of about 82 meters, and dozens of bays around the circumference are independent residential units; Huaiyuan Lou (怀远楼) in Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) belongs to the internal-access circular building, with a concentric circular ancestral hall and school in the center, vividly interpreting the traditional concept of 耕读传家 (gēng dú chuán jiā - "farming and studying as family tradition," a family tradition of valuing both agricultural work and scholarly pursuits).
Special-shaped Tulou demonstrate architectural wisdom that adapts to local conditions, with various forms such as armchair buildings, oval buildings, and Bagua buildings.
Zhencheng Lou (振成楼) in Yongding District (永定区), Longyan City (龙岩市) adopts a Bagua layout, with the main building on the outer ring being a four-story wood and earth structure, and the inner ring being a two-story brick and wood building, forming an inner and outer double ring with the same center. In addition, there are combined Tulou, such as Shengqing Lou (绳庆楼) in Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市), which is built on a mountain, with upper and lower courtyards staggered.
Containing Wisdom Rooted in the Land
Tulou is known as a treasure of Chinese folk houses, not only for its unique appearance, but also for its construction wisdom and cultural connotations.
Tulou has rigorous construction procedures, roughly including site selection and positioning, foundation masonry, rammed earth walls, erecting pillars and offering frames, draining water and covering tiles, and interior and exterior decoration.
When ramming the earth walls layer by layer, bamboo or wooden branches are added to the walls to enhance the stability and integrity of the building; wooden lintels and chimney pipes are pre-buried, and the positions of doors and windows are reserved; when erecting the wooden frame, the "wall yielding" process of gradually shrinking the rammed earth wall is fully utilized to achieve a "rigid and flexible combination" of rammed earth and wood structure.
Rigorous construction does not mean sticking to conventions. Tulou craftsmen exert their innovative spirit in construction to make Tulou more adaptable to the local environment and meet residential needs.
Yuchang Lou (裕昌楼) in Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) tilted shortly after completion but has stood for hundreds of years, its pillars seemingly "leaning east and west," but in reality, it is an "using softness to overcome hardness" seismic design - the flexibility of the wood frame can effectively alleviate earthquake shocks. In addition, the thick rammed earth walls can improve the heat storage performance of the walls, combined with a natural ventilation system, providing a comfortable living environment that is warm in winter and cool in summer.
The decorative art of Tulou is also perfectly integrated with the architectural function. Many Tulou incorporate plaster sculptures, stone work, murals, painted decorations, wood carvings, etc., expressing people's yearning for a better life.
Plaster sculptures are mostly seen on building gates, such as the murals and couplet inscriptions of Eryilou, which carry the expectations of the family; stone decorations are commonly seen on gates, door studs, stone boxes, etc., with simple and rich patterns; wood carvings are usually located on beams, brackets, and latticed windows. Shengwu Lou (绳武楼) in Pinghe County (平和县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) is known as the "Museum of Wood Carving," with more than 600 carvings reflecting the superb skills and unique aesthetics of the craftsmen.
Between squares and circles, it is a grand sight. With the advancement of China's rural revitalization work, the unique charm and profound cultural heritage of Tulou have attracted the attention of local governments and designers, and many Tulou buildings have been revitalized.
Changrong Lou (长荣楼) in Nanjing County (南靖县), Zhangzhou City (漳州市) has been carefully designed and transformed, while retaining its original appearance, greatly improving the comfort of the internal living space. The project has won many domestic and international design awards.
With the development of science and technology, some experts and scholars use advanced means such as three-dimensional scanning and digital twins to analyze the traditional craftsmanship of Tulou, which not only enables the construction techniques of Tulou to be effectively inherited, but also allows the Tulou architectural culture to gradually move towards the world.
Fujian Tulou, this unique architectural epic, contains wisdom rooted in the land and originating from life, and continues to release a power that touches people's hearts.
(Author's unit: School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Xiamen University (厦门大学); reporter Shi Yu (施钰) of this newspaper compiled and organized)
Return to TopBy: 肖 灿
When mentioning Yuelu Academy (岳麓书院) in Hunan (湖南), one cannot help but think of the academic atmosphere of "Chu (楚) is rich in talent, and this place is the most prosperous." Deep within this ancient millennium-old institution of learning lies an ancient "mathematics classroom notebook" – "Shu" (《数》).
"Shu" (《数》) is one of the scrolls in the "Qin Bamboo Slips Collected by Yuelu Academy" (岳麓书院藏秦简). This 2000-year-old bamboo slip allows us to glimpse a corner of mathematics education in the Qin Dynasty (秦代) and also allows us to re-recognize the position of "number" in the ancient Chinese knowledge system.
The entire "Shu" (《数》) consists of approximately 200 bamboo slips, all of which have been deciphered. Its content is wonderful and preserves various examples of ancient algorithm applications. Among them, the examples involving basic operations of fractions and proportions are close to the level of the later "The Nine Chapters on the Mathematical Art" (《九章算术》); the examples involving conversion of measurement units and engineering calculations can be used for land measurement, storage calculation, and project management.
"Shu" (《数》) also contains some reasoning and thinking training questions that can be answered using the Pythagorean theorem; some problem-solving methods even have a certain algebraic thinking, which can be used as a case for comparing ancient arithmetic logic with modern algebra.
However, repeated copying, omissions, and typos appear many times in the text of "Shu" (《数》), and the number of questions in various question types also varies greatly. All indications show that "Shu" (《数》) is likely a copy, and its original version may have been a textbook used by Qin Dynasty (秦代) school children or county government offices. Some of the learners may have been officials in charge of measurement, taxation, storage, and engineering, who had to master standard unit conversion, area and volume calculation, and basic proportional methods to meet the needs of government affairs.
Through the words on the bamboo slips, we can imagine such a scene: 2000 years ago, a math teacher in the classroom patiently taught practical algorithms one by one, while the students dipped in ink and wrote, while whispering "sixteen taels per catty, thirty catties per jun, four jun per dan" - the spark of knowledge lit at that moment still shines through the millennia.
In the Qin Dynasty (秦代), "number" was not only a tool, but also an order. Through "number," people could measure objects, survey the sky, unify laws, and customize systems. "Number" thus became a tool for national management. In this sense, "Shu" (《数》) is not only a "mathematics classroom notebook," but also a "technical document" of national governance. Whether it is measuring land tax, building canals and cities, or recording years and calendars, all are inseparable from the support of "Shu" (《数》) and "number."
Today, we no longer use bamboo slips to record knowledge in math class, but the wisdom of "number" continues to flourish.
(The author is a professor at the School of Architecture and Planning of Hunan University (湖南大学), interviewed and compiled by Yang Xun (杨迅), a reporter from this newspaper)
Return to TopBy: 张国华
Zhu Xi (朱熹) once described yam in a poem: "I want to write about jade yam but have no good words, ashamed to discuss honey and mutton soup." A reader asked: Why is yam called "jade yam"? What other nicknames do common vegetables in life have?
It should be said that "jade yam" is just one of the many names for yam. In addition to this, there are different names such as "shuyu (薯蓣)". The name "jade" may be used because of the jade-like white characteristic of yam after peeling.
Not only yam, but also many other interesting nicknames for the vegetables we eat daily.
For example, Chinese cabbage. In the pre-Qin period, fengcai (葑菜) was a general term for cruciferous vegetables, so it could also refer to Chinese cabbage. "Picking fengcai (葑菜), picking fengcai (葑菜), east of Shouyang (首阳)", the Book of Songs mentions fengcai (葑菜) many times. After the Han Dynasty, Chinese cabbage appeared with a new name - "song (菘)", and appeared in a large number of documents and poems. It was not until after the Song Dynasty that the name "Chinese cabbage" began to appear.
Beans are also called "shu (菽)". The Mozi (《墨子》) mentions: "If there are many shu (菽) and millet, the people will have enough to eat." It can be seen that in the pre-Qin period, beans called "shu (菽)" and millet called "su (粟)" were two important crops. Since the Han Dynasty, the name "shu (菽)" has gradually been replaced by the word "dou (豆)", which originally referred to a food utensil.
Lotus root has a long history of cultivation in China. When ancient people chanted about lotus root, they often mentioned "a curved arm of Xizi (西子)", using the arm of Xi Shi (西施) to describe the beautiful shape and white color of lotus root. "Xizi's (西子) arm" has therefore become another name for lotus root.
Radish is also called "lufu (芦菔)". Yang Wanli (杨万里), a writer of the Southern Song Dynasty, wrote a poem: "Snow-white lufu (芦菔) is not lufu (芦菔), eating it is spicy jade," therefore, radish is also known as "spicy jade", emphasizing the slightly spicy taste and jade-like texture of raw radish.
Bitter gourd is also called "puda (菩荙)" and "gentleman's vegetable". In the early Qing Dynasty, the scholar Qu Dajun (屈大均) introduced bitter gourd in "New Words of Guangdong (《广东新语》)": "Its taste is very bitter, but when cooked with other things, the other things are not bitter. It is bitter itself but does not make others bitter, and has the virtue of a gentleman." In addition, from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, bitter gourd also has the effects of "removing evil heat, relieving fatigue, clearing the heart and improving eyesight", which makes the image of "gentleman's vegetable" even more popular.
(The author is a professor at the School of Life Sciences, Shanxi University (山西大学). Reporter Zheng Yangyang (郑洋洋) of this newspaper compiled the interview.)
Return to TopBy: 本报记者 曾亦辰
The wind swirls fallen leaves outside the window, but inside a warm pot restaurant on the streets of Qingyang (庆阳), Gansu (甘肃), it is steamy and warm. Some people have taken off their coats and draped them over the backs of their chairs, while others hold their bowls close to the pot: "Get me a piece of meat!" "I want a meatball!" "There's plenty for everyone, enough in the pot..."
Qingyang (庆阳) warm pot has a long history. In the early years, warm pot was also called "one-pot stew"; now, it is an indispensable delicacy on the local people's tables.
The charm of the warm pot is inseparable from a good pot.
The pots used for warm pot are usually round, with a cylindrical flue, small at the top and large at the bottom, erected in the middle of the pot. The flue is connected to the firebox and has a semi-circular opening to the outside. There are two common materials for warm pots: copper pots heat up quickly, and the cooked ingredients are crisp, tender, and flavorful; clay pots have thick walls and heavy bottoms, and heat evenly, so the cooked soup is richer and the ingredients are softer.
The ingredients to be put into the warm pot need to be prepared in advance.
The first thing that catches the eye is red and green: red chili threads, paired with green scallion threads, garlic sprout threads, coriander segments, etc., sprinkled into the pot, making the pot and the soup base bright.
Whether the warm pot is delicious depends on whether the meat is well-made. The chef stir-fries the chicken and ribs first, then simmers them slowly. When the heat is right, the soup will be fragrant. The crystal-clear potato noodles and thin radish slices are blanched in boiling water, then taken out and cooled for later use. Then add locally produced daylily to embellish the rich warm pot with a touch of gold.
Warm pot requires attention to "stacking the pot."
Around the flue, all the food needs to be stacked layer by layer, and arranged row by row, to achieve "meat next to meat, and vegetables under vegetables."
Cabbage, radish slices, bean sprouts, etc. are the "vegetable base"; vermicelli, tofu, daylily, etc. support the "belly" of the warm pot; finally, chicken, ribs, sliced pork belly, meatballs, crispy meat, and other meats are gradually spread out to achieve a full visual effect, and a warm pot is considered complete. Then, slowly pour in the carefully prepared broth in advance—either chicken soup full of the fresh and fragrant flavor of native chicken, or pork soup stewed with large bones and meat to create a rich flavor.
Warm pot making is an art of time, from preparing the ingredients to being able to eat it, it takes more than 1 hour.
When it is first placed on the fire, the soup first makes a "sizzling" sound. When the soup boils, it turns into a muffled "glug-glug" sound. Watching the fine steam emerge from the edge of the pot, the heat surges up, and small bubbles appear in the soup, then it can be eaten. At the beginning of a meal, the ingredients are relatively chewy. As time goes on, the ingredients are slowly stewed until they are soft and tender, the vegetables absorb the oil fragrance, and the meat absorbs the vegetable flavor.
Pick up a piece of pork belly that has been stewed until it is translucent, the amber-colored skin wrapped in fat, trembling on the chopsticks. Take a bite, and the fatty part melts on the tip of the tongue first, carrying the rich freshness stewed from the broth, the rich meat aroma instantly fills the mouth, enveloping the thickness and tenderness of the Longdong (陇东) land; the lean part still retains the texture of the meat fibers, entwined with the sweetness of the radish and the fragrance of the tofu, with a dense texture that is lean but not dry. Pick up a chopstick of vermicelli, then take a piece of tofu and a slice of cabbage, and put them in your mouth: the elasticity of the vermicelli, the softness of the tofu, and the crispness of the cabbage, three textures intertwine in the mouth.
The winter in Northwest China is dry and cold, fortunately there is warm pot to fight the cold. When family and friends sit around, the soup warms, and the conversation becomes warm too. The round warm pot symbolizes family reunion; the rich ingredients symbolize a prosperous and happy life. While sharing the warm pot, people also share their good wishes for a better life in the future.
(Pan Xiaomei (盘小美) participated in the writing)
Return to TopLayout Design: Shen Yiling (沈亦伶)
Return to Top2026 has arrived!
In such days, have you heard the footsteps of the New Year? When the first ray of sunlight in 2026 gently spills out of the window lattice; when the first bird song of the morning awakens the fields and the city; or even earlier, when the ticking of the clock pulls the hands across the boundary of the date, when people counting down the New Year shout in unison "3, 2, 1...", undoubtedly, it is the New Year bringing warmth and peace, coming step by step to your side.
Behind the footsteps are footprints. Looking back at where time has come from, what echoes are the marching steps and salutes of the September 3rd Parade, the dragon's roar of the electromagnetic catapult of the Fujian Ship (福建舰), and the world's cheers for Chinese AI and Chinese robots. These grand sounds, intertwined with the warmth and happiness in our lives, add new notes to the footsteps of the changing years, named courage, named hope, named belief.
On the first day of the New Year, we invited six authors from all walks of life to look forward to the brand new 2026 with us—the footsteps of the New Year, your footsteps and mine, are the beginning of the future.
—Editor
Happy New Year
He Xiangyang (何向阳)
I stand in the open space in the yard
With my eyes closed, the surrounding scenery gradually fades away
Like standing in a wheat field as a child for the first time
The green taste is filled with warmth
Spring can be smelled
I walk into the bustling market
The noise in my ears becomes quiet
The lark's song suddenly descends
The swallows' chorus rises from the ground
Spring can be heard
I see my child running towards me
Opening his arms like another me
When we were young, we rode our bikes to watch the sunrise
On the plain, I reach out my arm to the morning light
Then open my palm to you: Look!
What am I holding?
"What else could it be but spring?!"
Spring can be touched
The Eighty-First Year of Holding a Pen
Xu Guangyao (徐光耀)
2026 has arrived, and the sunlight shines diagonally into the ward. The days are so quiet that you can hear the sound of drips, but in my heart, it always seems like I can still hear the bugle call of the march.
It has been eighty-one years since the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japan, and I have been holding a pen for literature for 81 years. Some time ago, a series of commemorative and commendation activities followed one after another, and a large number of honors fell on my head, making me both glorious and uneasy. I am not a genius, I am an ordinary member of the masses, an ordinary person. Later, I became a soldier and a writer, but I only wrote three or four decent works, and I really can't bear so much praise—I don't seem to be the Xu Guangyao (徐光耀) I used to be. I warn myself not to regard honor as a capital for pride. I am still an ordinary revolutionary soldier, an ordinary cadre, and now just an ordinary patient in the hospital.
My writing began during the War of Resistance Against Japan. When I was a special commissioner in the Ningjin County (宁晋县) Brigade, the division had a small newspaper called "Frontline," which often published news of victories from other troops. Our county brigade won victories, but no one knew about it. The newspaper said it was because no one in your brigade wrote articles. So I made up my mind that if we won another victory, I would try to write an article. Later, a news article of three or four hundred words was actually published in the newspaper. That excitement was even stronger than publishing a book now. This was the beginning of my writing, which was not yet considered literary creation. In 1945, the year Japan surrendered, I was already able to publish communications of three or four thousand words in the newspaper. Now, this is called documentary literature. At that time, I had no conscious awareness of literature. I felt that writing was a responsibility and an honor.
Over the years of engaging in literary creation, I have always insisted on starting from life and from characters. I have experienced the War of Resistance Against Japan, the War of Liberation, and the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea. I have a good understanding of military life and war life. I like to conduct some ideological explorations in the war environment. My teacher, Comrade Ding Ling (丁玲), once told me to write about characters hard and create one or two real typical characters. When I wrote "Little Soldier Zhang Ga (小兵张嘎)," I paid great attention to writing about characters, focusing on finding characters and portraying characters, and therefore wrote a little soldier Zhang Ga (小兵张嘎) who can be called a typical character. I believe that the ultimate goal of literature and art is to write about people. Some young literary workers now, including amateur writers, should pay attention to this: they should strive to love people, observe people, understand people, study people, and help people, and write for the people. In addition, they should regard literature as a sacred cause, adopt a serious attitude, and put in twelve points of effort to desperately write high-quality works that can be passed down. Only high-quality works can truly be welcomed by the public, truly exert the influence of literature and art, and truly enhance the people's ideological and spiritual state.
2026 is the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March. I joined the army at the age of 13 and was fortunate enough to join the First Company of the Special Service Battalion of the 359th Brigade of the 120th Division of the Eighth Route Army—this was an old Red Army company that had experienced the Long March, well-equipped, with 5 machine guns in the entire company. In the company, from the company commander, platoon leader, squad leader to many soldiers, were all veterans of the Long March. I lived and grew up with them, and often heard them tell stories of the battles at Dadu River (大渡河), Lazikou (腊子口), and the snowy mountains and grasslands. When they talked about those experiences of going from weak to strong in the face of difficulties, they were full of pride and self-confidence. Our revolutionary soldiers are not afraid of difficulties and hardships, not afraid of encirclement and suppression, and have the tenacity to not be afraid of failure. No matter what dangerous situation they are in, they always persevere to the end and resist tenaciously. During the War of Resistance Against Japan, we also relied on this spirit to stubbornly resist the enemy with absolute superiority for 14 years and achieved the final victory. We should always remember and inherit the spirit of the Long March and promote the socialist modernization construction to a deeper level and implement it in practice.
Our country is booming, and the living standards of our people are improving day by day. I hope that our writers can use the pens in their hands to record this new era, the beautiful life, and the high-spirited atmosphere.
Peace! Wealth!
Xie Mian (谢冕)
The words "Farewell and Welcome" appeared on the computer screen, and my heart was filled with joy. As soon as the New Year of 2026 arrives, I myself will safely enter the age of 95! The past year has been basically smooth, plus I can eat, drink, walk, and write! Friends and students all give a thumbs up and shout "Miracle"! Some caring students also reminded me: be humble, don't be proud! I told them, don't worry, I won't! I know myself, an ordinary person, an ordinary life, doing my best to help people, not harming people. What I say and do comes from the heart and is indeed well-intentioned.
When Chinese people celebrate the New Year, they all say auspicious words. The past year has been peaceful. Adhering to the "rules" of self-reliance, no birthday celebrations, no meetings, no seminars, etc. These things were once "breached," and they were also well-intentioned, but I insist that things cannot happen again! Of course, I insist on "drinking and eating meat, and writing some small articles when I have time." This is the reality of the past year and my original intention.
Every day of the past year, as long as conditions permit, I have insisted on exercising. Originally it was running, now it is "walking," about 10,000 steps a day, which is my compulsory course. Then there is writing. When I have time and feel like it, I write, small topics, small interests, which may not be elegant, but I want to write them. Especially in the second half of the year, at the encouragement of students, I actually opened a "column" in a magazine. I thank "Chinese Writers (中国作家)" and my friends. At the beginning of 2025, AI was inspiring! I said that it is very smart, with super memory, reading ability, and comprehensive organizational ability, but I keep my distance from it. It cannot replace me, especially in terms of creativity. It can only imitate, but I get along with it in a friendly way.
Saying that I have had a peaceful life seems not enough. In today's China, compared to more people, I have not only had a peaceful life, but also a "wealthy" one—my pension is enough for me to live a life without worrying about food and clothing. My life has been covered by endless wars. I remember when I was a child, my family had nothing, my father was unemployed, my brothers were scattered, I didn't know what tomorrow would bring, and I was living from hand to mouth. I recorded in my diary the tears of my mother facing the "empty rice jar"! I thought to myself, if my mother were still alive, I could provide her with a carefree life and a wonderful old age.
In the past ten years or so, my students and I have been happy to hold a "Pie Conference" for ten consecutive sessions. One year, according to my speech, the students made a banner praying for "Human Friendship World Peace." The owner of a small shop in Wudaokou (五道口) was very supportive and made it. Everyone was greatly encouraged and happy! In the blink of an eye, many years have passed. In this day of farewell and welcome, "Human Friendship World Peace" is still my unchanging prayer in my heart!
Sharing the Beauty of Life Under the Sun
Li Hongbing (李泓冰)
Our door is always open
Open arms waiting for you
Once you hug, you have a tacit understanding
You will fall in love with this place...
"Beijing Welcomes You (北京欢迎你)," which echoed in the streets and alleys in 2008 and almost became an "earworm," echoed in a selective course at Fudan University (复旦大学) at the end of 2025.
This was the last class of "Analysis of Major Historical Event Reports," which talked about the Beijing Olympic (北京奥运) reports. I asked, if you travel back in time and have artificial intelligence, big data crawling, short video and live broadcast skills, how would you present the Beijing Olympics, the launch of artificial satellites, and the promulgation of the first legislative marriage law of New China? Okay, that's the assignment—the children were a little hesitant and a little excited.
A student gave me a handwritten letter, saying that the weekly "time travel" made her feel like she was "on a spring outing as a primary school student," and attached a small bookmark made of ginkgo leaves from the campus, framing a corner of sunshine.
Yesterday's splendor has been fixed as the cobblestone road of history. What has just been walked on is a group of teenagers who call themselves "old selves." Ahead of them, there is a bright future, but there may also be hidden "black swans" or running "gray rhinos"... Waving goodbye to the classroom, I felt a bit of reluctance and a bit of hope in my heart.
Turning around, I thought of several elders. I went to the hospital to visit my teacher who was suffering from a serious illness. Although the teacher could not speak, he tried to smile at me. These lives that span centuries and are as resilient as silk, their efforts to accompany us, make people feel at ease and warm.
Like Academician Wang Zhenyi (王振义), who is 101 years old, when he sees me, he will pick up his mobile phone, swipe open "Favorites," and show off by asking me to listen to Beethoven's Violin Concerto in D major played by Russian violinist Maxim Vengerov, and then stare at me to eat the chocolate ball he handed me. There is also Academician Wen Yumei (闻玉梅), who is 91 years old. I love to hear her eyes sparkle as she recites her new book "Health Code for Wise Elders (智慧长者的健康密码)," and listen to her nagging concern about my sleep, skillfully using her mobile phone to order takeout, "I tell you, the claypot rice from this restaurant is the best! It will be delivered with the pot."
The eyes and hearts of these centenarian elders are as clean as those of a child. Behind the childlike heart is always the responsibility of **拆下肋骨当火把** (chāi xià lēigǔ dāng huǒbǎ - "take apart ribs as torch," to sacrifice oneself for others), the concern of sacrificing oneself for others, for those leukemia and hepatitis B patients they are always thinking about, and also for the ordinary us around them.
I like to chat with elders, which allows me, an elder in the eyes of children, to be a child again, and makes the noisy scenery still warm. This kind of happiness is precious.
With teenagers and elders, sharing the beauty of life under the sun, knocking on the unknown of 2026 together—the past is far away, and the future is ahead.
Entering a New Track
Tang Keyang (唐克扬)
For architecture, the past year can be called a watershed. Various annual figures and hot search keywords all point to the same English abbreviation: "AI". What kind of changes will the architectural field face in the coming year?
It can be predicted that everything will enter the "fast lane" or even the "super fast lane." Unlike pure theoretical majors, people in architecture are inherently "fast-handed." They not only have ideas, but also like to "do (the plan) first and then talk/think." However, artificial intelligence has made the boundary between "thinking" and "doing" more blurred. In the future, if you see a plan again, it is likely to come from the pen of an unknown "AI designer," which is accurate and good, making you temporarily "unable to tell the truth from the false."
When it comes to building houses, this will confuse many design clients: in the future, should we believe in such "intelligent" "plans"? With the prospect of 3D-printed buildings, the world we live in seems to be approaching the point of "one-click generation" in computer games. Many design links that once heavily relied on manual completion, such as drawing and modeling, have been gradually replaced by automated tools. "Draftsmen" and "modelers" have also gradually given way to algorithms and printers. In the future architectural creation process, what role does "people" really play?
The important issue is not the tool itself, but that some of the houses produced using the tool sometimes cannot truly allow people to "settle down and establish their lives," but only passively solve the need for architectural space. Designers must have dreams and must give ordinary things extraordinary meaning, so that they transcend the ordinary and also transcend realistic utilitarianism. In the world of soulful design, anything is possible. It is the dream of creation that negates the negative side of tools.
The unprecedentedly important architectural algorithm in future cities will be the deep organizational logic behind people and things, such as how a Hutong Art Museum (胡同美术馆) can connect with the daily life of community residents, how to design railway stations in big cities to safely and effectively welcome and send off passengers... The above "intelligence" is based on but not equal to the mathematical logic of modeling, and even less equal to architectural engineering management. Living in a real and concrete city, the trajectory of daily life is depicted by invisible spatial data. You and I, including the relationship between you and I, will also be the objects and consequences of this algorithm. From this perspective, the recent digital revolution has not invented any intelligence from scratch, but mainly facilitated the social needs of "higher efficiency and lower cost."
The problems of architecture, an ancient discipline, will never disappear due to the emergence of AI. It will face challenges on a larger scale.
Learning and Creation
Jia Zhangke (贾樟柯)
When the New Year bell rings, we welcome 2026. What we are saying goodbye to is not only 2025, but also a quarter of a century.
Last year, Chinese filmmakers had many anniversaries. We commemorated the 130th anniversary of the birth of world cinema, the 120th anniversary of the birth of Chinese cinema, and the China Film Directors Association (中国电影导演协会) also commemorated the 100th anniversary of the birth of our first president, Director Xie Tieli (谢铁骊). So many anniversaries have made 2025 a node for us to recall the past and look forward to the future. And this commemorative node will also become the starting point for Chinese filmmakers to begin a new film journey.
2025 is also the 10th anniversary of the release of the film "Mountains May Depart (山河故人)." We decided to re-release "Mountains May Depart." Unexpectedly, this film, which depicts the ordinary human feelings and love, separation and reunion 10 years ago, can resonate greatly with young audiences. At the meet-and-greet, many young viewers mentioned a question in unison: what will the future of film be like? This question made me realize that both individual directors and the film industry will face a brand new era. This era fills us with longing and is also full of challenges.
Artificial intelligence, short videos, and micro-dramas are currently issues of great concern to the film industry. Artificial intelligence is increasingly deeply involved in the entire film process, and image generation technology is changing with each passing day, which brings both challenges and opportunities to film.
In its 130-year history, film has faced challenges brought about by new technologies countless times. From the television era to the streaming media era, from short videos to micro-dramas, audiovisual works are constantly enriched, and film is no longer the only audiovisual work. Why is it that after ups and downs, film is still welcomed by the public? I think that is because directors of different eras, facing the challenges of different emerging media, are constantly creating the uniqueness of film that is different from emerging media.
Film history tells us that filmmakers should carry out a dual task: learning and creating. Technology will bring more expressiveness to cinema. We should learn new technologies to further improve the level of the Chinese film industry. Filmmakers should also explore and create. When television was invented, we expanded the audiovisual effects of the big screen, making it impossible for television to replace cinema. Now is the time when streaming is popular. Streaming is segmented, isolating the audience in their own small spaces to watch movies. At this time, shouldn't we emphasize the gathering function of cinemas even more: everyone sits together, sharing the joys and sorrows with the movie. The cinema will allow us to form an emotional community.
Now, short videos and micro-dramas are very popular, which reminds me that Director Xie Tieli (谢铁骊) once said that the charm of cinema lies in "description" and "rendering." I deeply agree. Micro-dramas pursue high-frequency gratification. If micro-dramas are talking about point A, point B, and point C, then cinema is talking about how we go from point A, step by step to point B, and how we go from point B to point C through description and rendering. In the movie, we see not only dense climaxes, but also a journey of life, the real life of the people, our real emotional world, everyone's real sense of time, and our perception and feeling of touching life with our bodies.
I think that at such a new starting point in 2026, if we adhere to the spirit of humanism and persist in technological learning, we will not become a person troubled by technological change. Filmmakers should also maintain "the courage to be innovative, the spirit to be the first, and the upward vigor," and deeply embrace life and embrace the new era. 锐意创新的勇气、敢为人先的锐气、蓬勃向上的朝气 (ruì yì chuàng xīn de yǒng qì, gǎn wéi rén xiān de ruì qì, péng bó xiàng shàng de zhāo qì - "courage to innovate, spirit to be the first, upward vigor," describes a proactive and energetic attitude towards innovation and progress).
Return to TopThis edition's email: dadi@peopledaily.cn
Layout design: Cai Huawei (蔡华伟)