In his annual National Day address on October 1, President Xi Jinping expressed confidence in China’s future amid a challenging global environment, emphasizing economic resilience and national unity. Speaking at a state reception in Beijing marking the 77th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, Xi outlined priorities for the coming years, including robust economic growth and support for Hong Kong, while issuing firm warnings regarding Taiwan and foreign interference.
Delivering his first National Day speech following a recent state visit to the United States, Xi highlighted the start of China’s 15th five-year plan (2026-2030), a period seen as critical for advancing the country’s position in technology and industrial innovation. He called for a balanced approach to reform and opening up, stressing the need to safeguard national security alongside economic development. Xi noted that China’s economy had shown resilience amid pressures, shifting toward new growth drivers and higher-quality expansion.
Acknowledging a complex domestic and international landscape, Xi urged government efforts to meet annual targets and establish momentum for the five-year plan. He reiterated China’s commitment to the “one country, two systems” framework, pledging greater support for Hong Kong and Macau to integrate with national development and maintain long-term stability.
On Taiwan, Xi maintained a firm stance, asserting a commitment to counter “Taiwan independence” separatist activity and opposing external interference. However, his call to promote peaceful cross-strait relations and national reunification marked a shift in tone from last year’s address, reflecting nuanced diplomatic messaging amid ongoing tensions. Beijing regards Taiwan as a core national interest and has not ruled out force to achieve reunification, while the United States opposes unilateral changes to the status quo and legally provides Taiwan with defensive arms.
The address came weeks before the Communist Party’s fifth plenary session from October 26 to 29, a key event ahead of next year’s national party congress. The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening party governance and discipline, with draft policies under final consideration.
Xi also affirmed China’s adherence to an independent foreign policy aimed at contributing positive energy amid global uncertainty. The recent warming of Sino-American relations, marked by Xi’s US visit and plans for further summits in Shenzhen and Miami later this year, was noted as unprecedented in frequency. Experts suggest the dialogue offers a strategic opportunity to manage bilateral tensions, although significant competition remains, especially in advanced technology fields like artificial intelligence.
Despite optimism, China faces economic headwinds, including subdued domestic demand and external pressures such as energy supply disruptions linked to regional conflicts. Beijing has signaled further policy measures to support growth, with recent initiatives including mortgage interest subsidies. Analysts observe that while export sectors benefit from the AI surge, domestic investment and consumption growth remain limited.
Concluding his address, Xi described China’s path toward national rejuvenation as “unstoppable,” highlighting the strengths of the socialist system with Chinese characteristics and ongoing modernization of governance. He called on the nation to maintain confidence and steadily pursue its development goals.
Earlier on National Day morning, Xi and other leaders participated in a ceremony at Tiananmen Square to honor fallen national heroes on Martyrs’ Day, commemorating those who sacrificed for China’s independence and prosperity.