Xi highlights reform for 2018 at New Year gathering

World
Europe

President Xi Jinping has stressed the importance of comprehensively deepening reforms in 2018 when China will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the launch of the nation's opening up to the world.

Xi, also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks on Friday at a New Year gathering held in Beijing by the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.

“The route to the new era of socialism with Chinese characteristics has been clear and definite. The country is braving the wind and the waves to achieve the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” the president said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks at a New Year gathering held in Beijing, December 29. /Xinhua Photo

Xi said the Party should uphold and implement in the year ahead, the guideline principles delivered at the 19th CPC National Congress as the country continues to undergo reforms, strengthen economic growth, make structural adjustments, improve social welfare and enhance risk prevention.

In 2018, China will continue to implement the policies of "one country, two systems" to maintain the long-time peace and security in Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, while promoting the comprehensive development of cross-Strait relations with Taiwan based on the 1992 Consensus.

Milestones have been achieved in 2017, while China has made significant strides in poverty alleviation, strengthening the economy, politics, building a world-class military and creating a "Beautiful China."

Central and state departments have finished 211 reform tasks, with 79 key reform tasks also concluded, he said.

"All efforts are accounted for achieving the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," Xi said. "We strongly believe under the leadership of the CPC, with the implementation of comprehensive reforms, and the participation of people of all ethnic groups, China, a huge ship, will sail to the glorious shore."

On behalf of the CPC Central Committee, State Council and CMC, Xi extended New Year greetings to non-Communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, personages with no party affiliation, people's organizations, as well as people from all walks of life, including workers, farmers, intellectuals, soldiers and police officers.

His greetings were also extended to compatriots in Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and overseas Chinese, as well as international friends.

(With inputs from Xinhua)