From October 15 to 18, General Secretary Xi Jinping conducted an inspection in the provinces of Fujian and Anhui. This visit came at a critical juncture for implementing the spirit of the third plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party, sending a clear message to local leaders on the importance of reform and achieving set goals.

At the Gu Wenchang Memorial Hall, General Secretary Xi urged leaders at all levels to learn from the exemplary figure of Gu Wenchang, emphasizing the need to earn the people’s trust and commit to creating a harmonious society. Later, he visited Liu Chi Xiang in Tongcheng City, where he reflected on the historical wisdom of resolving conflicts and underscored the importance of fostering an environment for peace and prosperity.

“The essence of reform and development is to improve the lives of the people,” he stated, consistently placing the needs of the population at the forefront of his agenda. His straightforward remarks served as a guide for leaders to remember that the people’s welfare should be the measure of their governance, emphasizing the necessity of genuine performance over superficial accolades. He advocated for a deep-rooted sense of duty among party members, urging them to uphold rigorous discipline and maintain a mindset focused on the party’s founding principles and mission.

In discussing the pioneering spirit necessary for reform and innovation, Xi highlighted the importance of being bold and proactive. In a meeting with the Fujian provincial government, he commended the province’s long-standing tradition of reform and creativity. During his visit to an exhibition of significant scientific and technological innovations in Hefei, he encouraged researchers to unleash their potential and strive for groundbreaking discoveries. He reminisced about his earlier inspection of rural reform in Anhui, noting the enthusiasm of farmers to engage in reform efforts and the need to explore forward paths for revitalizing rural areas today.

Xi stressed that a bold spirit is essential for tackling challenges and achieving high-quality development. He emphasized that to advance China’s unique modernization, innovation must be at the forefront. Addressing new circumstances and challenges requires a persistent commitment to the spirit of pioneering and winning through effort.

While discussing the implementation of major reforms, Xi underscored the need for integrity and hands-on efforts from party members and leaders. With the blueprint for further deepening reforms laid out by the third plenary session, he has been actively engaged in guiding substantial reform initiatives, encouraging local authorities to adapt based on their unique contexts.

In Anhui, he highlighted the necessity of ensuring clarity in responsibilities among party members to motivate them and address issues of inaction or ineffectiveness. During his time in Fujian, he reiterated the call for genuine action, promoting reforms that support grassroots governance and alleviate unnecessary burdens.

Xi made it clear that the long-term growth of various sectors, such as technological innovation and ecological governance, requires consistent effort and forward-thinking strategies. He referred to a strategic development plan he had compiled over three decades ago, reflecting on its lasting relevance today.

His previous visits to Anhui showcased significant advancements, a testament to the province’s relentless pursuit of innovation. Upon returning to Dongshan Island in Fujian, Xi observed how the island had transformed from a marginalized area into an ecologically thriving community, thanks to principles he had previously established.

He has repeatedly emphasized the spirit of collective responsibility, where success does not rest solely on individual recognition. Aiming for sustainable development means focusing on foundational achievements for the long term. As the nation strives for modernization and the revival of the nation, the call for perseverance and dedication to turning scientific goals into reality has never been more important. This commitment ensures accountability to both the history and the people of China.

Planning: Zhang Xiaosong
Main Writers: Huang Yue, Hu Mengxue
Visual: Tan Muxiao, Jia Yining
Produced by: Xinhua News Agency Domestic Division
First Studio by Xinhua News Agency