China's 13th National Women's Congress opens at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, October 23, 2023. /Xinhua
Editor's note: Ruqiya Anwar, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is a PhD scholar in Media and Communication Studies in Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.
China's 13th National Women's Congress in Beijing offered well-deserved praise for Chinese women's remarkable roles across diverse fields, from poverty alleviation to scientific and technological innovation, as well as their unwavering courage during the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Central Committee of the Communist Party of China delivered a strong message, recognizing women's key role in the nation's growth and urging them to remain committed to the cause of China's modernization. The importance of this recognition cannot be understated, as it highlights the pivotal role that women have had in defining China's history and future. It highlights the nation's dedication to gender parity and women's active participation in all spheres of life.
The message conveyed by the CPC Central Committee resonates across the country, appreciating and honoring the various roles that women have assumed, particularly in times of unprecedented challenges such as the global pandemic. It represents the Party's recognition that women are at the forefront of China's development, actively influencing the country's destiny. Notably, women's achievements are highly valued at the highest levels of Chinese leadership.
Held every five years, the 13th National Women's Congress is a unique entity in the country's system of governance. As the most powerful organization among Chinese women's federations at all levels, it embodies the combined strength and clout of the millions of women who inhabit the nation. This Congress brings together women's views and ambitions from all areas of life, and its decisions will have far-reaching consequences for gender equality, social justice, and women's rights.
It is critical to recognize the diligent efforts of Chinese women in a variety of professions. They have played an important role in bringing communities out of poverty. Poverty alleviation is among the primary goals of China's national development plan, and women play a critical role in this effort.
Women have been actively involved in the development and implementation of poverty alleviation policies, working at the grassroots level to ensure that these policies result in actual and long-term change. Their desire to improve the lives of the less fortunate demonstrates their compassion and determination.
Chinese educator Zhang Guimei talks to her students at school in Lijiang, southwest China's Yunnan Province, March 10, 2008. Zhang Guimei is the founder and principal of Huaping High School for Girls, China's first free public high school for girls, which is located in a remote region in Yunnan Province. /CFP
Women's federations and organizations have worked relentlessly to empower women in low-income regions. Programs focused on boosting women's skills, education, and access to resources have been critical in improving their economic chances. By offering training and support, these initiatives have helped women build entrepreneurial skills and produce income for their families.
Women have been at the forefront of technological innovation, creating and developing cutting-edge solutions. Women in China have proved their ability and drive to push innovation, from advances in artificial intelligence to renewable energy technologies. Their efforts are propelling China forward in a variety of fields and contributing to the country's technological supremacy on the world stage.
Women have made significant contributions to biotechnology and healthcare. Women researchers and healthcare professionals have made significant contributions to medical science and healthcare delivery. Their dedication was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when female healthcare professionals fought the virus on the front lines.
For the entire country and the world, women's dedication to ensuring public safety and saving lives served as an inspiration. They demonstrated the unshakeable spirit of Chinese women with their tenacity in the face of adversity.
In addition to providing healthcare, women in a variety of occupations made sure that vital services continued. Throughout these difficult times, women were essential to the smooth operation of society in a variety of fields, including public administration, logistics, and transportation. Their unshakeable dedication to the welfare of the country was demonstrated by their commitment to their roles and communities.
As the 13th National Women's Congress took place, the emphasis was not just on honoring previous successes, but also on charting a course for the future. The encouragement for women to devote themselves even more to the cause of China's modernization underscores the Party's vision for a future in which women remain active participants and leaders in the country's growth.
By maximizing the potential of women in all areas, China can leverage their talents, innovation, and leadership to propel the country's modernization ahead. This pledge is consistent with China's larger objective of constructing a prosperous, inclusive, and equitable society.
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