Xi Jinping: "Maintain Zero-COVID Policy While Achieving Economic Growth"

Sichuan Province Inspection Promises Disaster Recovery
Emphasizes Food Security... Unusual Visit by Development Company

Chinese President Xi Jinping waves to residents during his visit to Yongfeng Village in Meishan, Sichuan Province on the 8th. Meishan, China - Photo by Xinhua and Yonhap News Agency

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed his existing stance of adhering to the "zero-COVID policy" while aiming to grow the economy. Although there is criticism within China that COVID-19 prevention policies are hindering economic growth, the country's top leader reiterated his intention to maintain the current prevention measures.

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The Communist Party's official newspaper, People's Daily, reported on the 10th that President Xi, who holds the positions of General Secretary of the Communist Party, President of the State, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission (the highest military rank), conducted a 2-day inspection tour of Sichuan Province from the 8th to the 9th. People's Daily devoted the entire front page to detailing Xi's schedule in Sichuan. Some in Beijing view this visit as a political move to demonstrate the solidity of Xi's power both domestically and internationally.

During his visit to Sichuan, President Xi conveyed messages regarding COVID-19 prevention and control, stable economic and technological development, food security, and social stability.

Xi emphasized that epidemic containment efforts must be carried out meticulously and firmly, insisting on the resolute implementation of the zero-COVID policy. He added that efficient policies are necessary to improve people's livelihoods, including employment and social stability.

First, Xi pledged support for recovery from the earthquake that occurred in Sichuan on the 1st, including treatment for the injured and assistance for displaced residents. He then visited the Meishan City agricultural new technology demonstration zone, emphasizing national food security. The Meishan demonstration zone is a research site for rice varieties. At the site, Xi stated, "The Communist Party of China is practicing socialism with Chinese characteristics for the better life of all people."

Xi's next schedule was a university visit. Meeting with students at Yibin University, he checked on the employment situation of university graduates. This year, the number of university graduates in China is estimated to reach a record high of 10.76 million.

Xi said, "A happy life is created through labor," urging universities and companies to make special efforts to help graduates find jobs. He specifically mentioned graduates from disadvantaged families, those with family members with disabilities, and graduates facing long-term unemployment.

Xi also visited the XGIMI factory. It is unusual for Xi to visit individual companies during local inspections. XGIMI is known as a company possessing the top technology in China for producing projectors.

At the XGIMI production line, Xi said, "To lead scientific and technological innovation, we must actively nurture 'hidden champions'." He stressed the need to strengthen independent innovation capabilities and accelerate the transition from a manufacturing giant to a manufacturing powerhouse. Xi further stated, "For China to become a strong nation, it must be strong in all fields," and urged, "Let us make all-out efforts by the middle of this century to realize the dream of becoming a strong country."

For his final schedule, Xi visited a military unit in Chengdu to encourage officers and soldiers. Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission Xu Qiliang (the second highest military rank) accompanied Xi on the military visit.

Ahead of the 20th Party Congress this fall, Xi's visit to Sichuan appears to reaffirm his governance philosophy. Analysts suggest that the inspection sites were selected in line with Xi's governance philosophy. Including a military unit visit in a local livelihood inspection is also seen as a reaffirmation that military power rests with Xi.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.