2026 will be a success story too

President Xi Jinping's New Year Address is more than just words. It is the clear manifestation of a confident, people-centered vision for China's development in 2026. When he reminded the world of China's developments and successes in 2025, he also set a clear direction for the future. He showed the world that he has a firm faith in country's path and governance.

The review of 2025's achievements was basically meant to acknowledge the hard work of the people of China. President Xi reminded everyone that China's progress is the result of collective efforts and perseverance, and that its development is people-driven. He also specifically linked the nation's development with the efforts of the ordinary people. In this way, the address strengthened national unity and pride.

Another strong point of the address was its focus on high-quality development. President Xi emphasized economic growth along with a focus on innovation, environmental protection, and social welfare — highlighting the shift from speed-focused growth to balanced and sustainable progress.

The New Year Address also showed strong cultural confidence. By highlighting China's traditional cultural practices and modern cultural activities, President Xi also showed the world that China's identity is secure and evolving. It is not weakened by globalization and China will never abandon its historical roots in this race of development. This enhances China's soft power and cultural appeal.

In his address, President Xi presented a very forward-looking vision when first he talked about the China's 14th Five-Year Plan and its achievements and then the transition to China's 15th Five-Year Plan. He described it as a moment that requires careful planning, confidence, and perseverance. The repeated emphasis on continuity, momentum, and determination showed a belief that national rejuvenation is a long journey that requires discipline, unity, and sustained effort.

Finally, it showed that China seeks peace and cooperation on the global stage. By emphasizing global governance, climate action, and shared development, President Xi presented China as a responsible major country willing to work with others to address global challenges.

In essence, this address showed the world how proud China is of its people and its development in 2025. It also made it very clear that China is confident in its path, strong in its capabilities, stable in its governance, culturally secure, and committed to peaceful development. It is steadily advancing its long term national goals and is determined to make the year 2026 a success story, too.

Khalid Taimur Akram, executive director of Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF) based in Islamabad. The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

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