On the eve of the New Year, President Xi Jinping delivered his 2026 New Year message via China Media Group and the internet. Photo by Yan Yan, Xinhua News Agency.
Hello everyone! As the year turns and new chapters unfold, I send my warmest wishes from Beijing as we welcome the New Year!
2025 marks the final year of the 14th Five-Year Plan. Over the past 5 years, we have worked tirelessly and forged ahead despite numerous challenges, successfully completing our goals and taking steady steps on the new journey of Chinese modernization. China's economic output has continuously reached new milestones, with this year's GDP projected to reach 140 trillion yuan. Our economic strength, technological capability, national defense, and overall national power have all advanced to a higher level. Lush green landscapes have become a vibrant hallmark, while people's sense of gain, happiness, and security continues to grow. The 5-year journey was extraordinary, and our achievements are hard-won. Through your dedication, perseverance, and selfless contributions, you have built a thriving China. I pay tribute to every hardworking contributor!
This year, 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 Reclamation Memorial Day. This grand national ceremony was majestic and inspiring; the glory of victory will be forever recorded in history. It inspires Chinese people to remember history, honor the martyrs, cherish peace, and forge a future, gathering powerful momentum for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
We drive high-quality development through innovation. Deep integration of technology and industry has sparked a surge of breakthroughs: AI large models race ahead, domestic chip R&D achieves new milestones, and China stands as one of the world's fastest-rising economies in innovation. Tianwen-2 embarks on its "star-chasing" mission; the Yaxia hydropower project breaks ground; the first aircraft carrier with electromagnetic catapults officially enters service. Humanoid robots showcase their "kung fu mode," while drones light up the sky with dazzling "fireworks." Innovation fuels new productive forces and enriches everyday life.
We nourish the spiritual home with culture. The surge in interest in museums and cultural heritage, alongside the growing popularity of intangible cultural heritage, has added new members to the world's list of World Heritage Sites. Characters like Wukong and Nezha have captured global audiences, while traditional Chinese aesthetics have become the top trend among young people. The tourism market is booming, with "City Super" and "Village Super" leagues drawing huge crowds, and winter sports igniting passion across the season. Blending tradition with modernity, Chinese culture shines brighter than ever.
We build a better life together. I attended celebrations in Tibet and Xinjiang, from the snowy plateau to the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains. People of all ethnic groups are united like pomegranate seeds, expressing their love for the motherland and celebrating happiness with white khadas and enthusiastic songs and dances. No issue concerning people's livelihood is too small; every detail matters. Over the past year, rights and interests for new employment groups were further protected, age-friendly renovations brought convenience to seniors, and families with children received an additional 300 yuan subsidy each month. With steaming hot meals and daily life thriving in every "small family," China as the "big family" continues to prosper.
We continue to embrace the world with open arms. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization Tianjin Summit and the Global Women's Summit were successfully held, and Hainan Free Trade Port completed its full island customs closure. To better address climate change, China has announced a new round of nationally determined contributions. Following the "Three Major Initiatives," I have proposed the Global Governance Initiative to advance a fairer and more equitable global governance system. Today, the world faces complex turbulence, and some regions remain engulfed in war. China stands on the side of history and is committed to working with all nations to promote peace and development worldwide, advancing the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
I recently attended the National Games opening ceremony. It was heartening to see Hong Kong, Macao, and Guangdong working together with one heart and in step. We must unwaveringly implement the policy of "One Country, Two Systems," support Hong Kong and Macao in better integrating into the nation's overall development, and ensure their long-term prosperity and stability. Compatriots across the Taiwan Strait share deep familial ties; the historic trend toward national reunification is unstoppable!
A strong Party ensures a strong nation. We have deepened the study and implementation of the Central Eight-point Regulation Spirit, established credibility through strict governance, eliminated corruption to foster renewal, and advanced self-revolution—continuously improving the conduct of the Party and government. We must uphold our original aspirations and mission with perseverance and long-term commitment, continuing to answer the "Cave Dwelling Question" from Yan'an by delivering a report card worthy of the people.
2026 marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan. To succeed, one must plan for the end from the start; to achieve success, one must strategize at the outset. We will stay focused on our goals, maintain confidence, and build momentum to advance high-quality development, deepen reform and opening-up comprehensively, promote common prosperity for all people, and write a new chapter in China's ongoing miracle.
Seek your dreams without counting the miles; walk forward with confidence. Let's summon the courage to ride forth, ignite the energy of a thousand galloping horses, and maintain relentless momentum. Together, let's strive for our dreams and build happiness, turning grand visions into beautiful realities.
The new year's dawn is about to rise. Wishing our nation majestic landscapes, fertile lands, and bathed in morning glory! May everyone find joy in their hearts, achieve success in their endeavors, and look forward to all things!
