The Chinese head of state, Xi Jinping, delivered a year-end address, declaring that achieving total reunification of the mainland is a shared objective of all Chinese people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, according to Chinese state media.
Xi reviewed key national events, including the celebrations commemorating the Communist Party of China’s centennial last July. He stated, “We stood in Tiananmen Square after a tumultuous historical journey,” pledging continued efforts to ensure the party remains relevant in modern times.
Following a year of Beijing’s enhanced control over Hong Kong, Xi affirmed China’s ongoing commitment to the prosperity of Hong Kong and Macao, asserting that the “one country, two systems” framework remains stable due to concerted efforts.
The Chinese leader, identifying himself as a “person from a rural background” who “experienced poverty,” reiterated the accomplishments of the poverty eradication campaign, while acknowledging that “further progress is needed.”
Xi also highlighted the military and police forces’ disaster relief work, citing this year’s devastating summer floods in central Henan province, which resulted in over 300 fatalities.
The Chinese President, who has remained within the country for nearly two years, mentioned receiving international accolades for China’s role in combating the pandemic during his virtual meetings with global leaders. He cited China’s provision of “two billion vaccine doses to over 120 nations and international organizations.”
Furthermore, he confirmed China’s readiness to host the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, scheduled for February in the capital, despite diplomatic boycotts declared by nations including the United States.
Xi Jinping faces significant hurdles in 2022, including navigating China’s economic slowdown and the Communist Party’s 20th Congress in the autumn, where he could potentially secure an unprecedented third term.
