In the midst of the excitement surrounding the implementation of the spirit of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party, General Secretary Xi Jinping embarked on a rigorous inspection tour. In just four days, he traveled across two provinces and four cities, witnessing the rising tides and the numerous sails competing in the wind.
In Fujian, he explored new paths for rural revitalization on beautiful islands, reminisced about the early days of entrepreneurial endeavors in Xiamen, and looked forward to the bright future for special economic zones and free trade areas. “The changes here were unimaginable back in the day,” he observed, admiring the new vitality of Fujian’s landscapes.
In Anhui, he drew on the cultural wisdom of ancient cities and observed the remarkable rise of technological and industrial innovations in Hefei. “Each visit brings a new leap forward,” he noted, reflecting the relentless spirit of renewal and progress.
Taking a stand at the forefront of development with determination and initiative, China’s modernization journey unfolds through practical achievements.
**Promoting Rural Revitalization—“A Brighter Future for Rural Areas”**
Aojiao Village, a small fishing village at the southeastern tip of Dongshan Island in Fujian, boasts waters on three sides and thrives through the sea. General Secretary Xi Jinping had visited this place 23 years earlier, and upon returning, he found a new landscape.
On the afternoon of the 15th, he arrived in Dongshan. Driving through, he marveled at the beautiful coastline and lush greenery, recalling, “It’s heartening to see such tremendous changes in Dongshan Island after 23 years.”
Walking along Xinghai Avenue by Aojiao Bay, he admired the picturesque view of blue skies, clear seas, and beautiful seaside homes that have become thriving tourist accommodations.
Local village leaders informed him that by protecting marine ecology, enhancing village aesthetics, and improving tourism services, the village welcomed 130,000 tourists in 2023. Once a traditional fishing village, it now thrives on marine fishing, aquaculture, seafood processing, e-commerce, and island tourism. The village collective income reached 1.73 million yuan, with per capita disposable income hitting 58,000 yuan, showcasing a bustling life for residents.
“I always believed this village had great development potential, and now it’s flourishing even more,” Xi reminisced. “During my time in Fujian, I felt that our islands were full of promise, advocating for a reliance on mountain and sea resources.”
Fujian, known for its mountainous landscapes and vast oceans, was a fertile ground for exploring tailored development pathways and turning natural resources into advantages.
At the local fishing port, returning fishing boats were laden with catches, bustling markets were alive with trade. Xi eagerly engaged with fishermen, asking about their catch, prices, and sales avenues, illustrating his connection to the community.
As the vibrant local spirit surrounded him, Xi outlined the future direction for rural revitalization: “In this new era and on this new journey, rural areas are bound to have an even brighter prospect, and farmers will enjoy a more prosperous life. Village party organizations must play a leading role, guiding our people to maximize the potential of the sea and strive forward on the road to rural revitalization and common prosperity.”
The most daunting tasks of building a modern socialist nation still lie within rural regions. From Fujian to Anhui, Xi Jinping conducted extensive research on how to strengthen agriculture, beautify rural areas, and enrich farmers’ lives. He emphasized the importance of high-standard farmland construction, improving basic operating systems in agriculture, and enhancing the living environment in rural areas for a more beautiful countryside.
**Seizing Key Opportunities—“Leading the Charge in Reforms and High-Level Openings”**
Known as a window for reform and opening up, Xiamen has long held a pivotal role in China’s reform journey. It was here that Xi first engaged directly in reform efforts.
On the morning of the 16th, Xi visited the Xiamen area of the China (Fujian) Pilot Free Trade Zone and observed the achievements of free trade zone development.
The exhibition hall featured a video chronicling Xiamen’s exceptional reform journey, showcasing milestones such as the establishment of the first foreign-invested enterprise and major events that shaped its development.
Stopping to reflect on the historical transformation, Xi picked up a blue-covered strategic development report created over 30 years ago, of which he had a pivotal role. “This is a photo from a meeting back in 1988; time flies,” he noted as he reviewed the early planning phase.
“Back then, we faced many unknowns while drafting plans for a free port. Today, it’s gratifying to see how far Xiamen has progressed. We boldly ventured into reform, and the results have exceeded our expectations.”
With over 600 innovative measures and 31 reform experiences to share nationwide, Xiamen’s Free Trade Zone stands at the forefront of modern reform efforts.
“We must adapt to new realities and deepen institutional openness, aligning with international standards to further solidify our role in high-level external engagement,” Xi urged during his talks with provincial leaders, highlighting Fujian’s pioneering spirit for innovation and reform throughout history.
**Advancing Modernization—“Innovation Must Lead the Way”**
Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party, Xi has consistently highlighted the importance of technological innovation during his visits to Anhui. At a display of recent technological achievements in Hefei, he meticulously examined developments in various sectors, including new energy vehicles and advanced tech products.
“Anhui’s technological innovation reflects an inspiring upward trajectory. Each time I visit, I see new advancements,” he praised while emphasizing that “science and innovation are key pathways to modernization.”
By actively nurturing talent and enhancing the innovation ecosystem, Anhui is tasked with becoming a leading hub for technological advancements and emerging industries.
“Effective progress requires focusing on both ends of the spectrum—supporting influential tech leaders while also nurturing specialized small and medium-sized enterprises to cultivate a robust innovation environment,” Xi outlined, illustrating his vision for integrated and inclusive growth.
**Upholding People-Centric Governance—“Serving the People and Achieving Sustained Success”**
In the ancient city of Tongcheng, Anhui, known for its rich cultural heritage, Xi Jinping explored the historical “Six-Foot Alley,” a testament to the virtues of humility and harmony.
Reiterating the importance of addressing people’s needs, he emphasized that good governance is rooted in tangible improvements in people’s lives and building a harmonious society.
His visit to the Gu Wenchang Memorial Hall in Fujian reflected the enduring spirit of service, encapsulating the essence of benefiting the people. Engaging with local scholars and representatives, he reinforced that the admiration of leaders like Gu Wenchang lies not only in their historical significance but in their universal values of selflessness and dedication to the people’s welfare.
“Only by rooting ourselves in the people can we ensure lasting progress,” Xi concluded, emphasizing a future driven by the service of the populace and the collective pursuit of a common prosperity.
