Qiushi Publishes Xi’s Article on Strengthening Party Governance
In the February 16th edition of Qiushi (Issue 4), an important article by Xi Jinping, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC), President of the People’s Republic of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, was published. The article is titled “Perfecting the System of Comprehensive and Strict Party Governance.”
The article highlights that since the 18th CPC National Congress, China has steadfastly advanced the cause of comprehensive and strict Party governance, achieving a series of theoretical, practical, and institutional innovations. This has led to the construction of a robust system of Party governance and opened new horizons for the self-revolution of the Party, which has a history of over a century. However, the article also acknowledges that the “Four Major Tests” and the “Four Major Dangers” facing the Party will remain long-term challenges. The process of comprehensive and strict governance is a journey that will never end, and the Party’s self-revolution is ongoing. The entire Party must remain clear-headed and resolute in its commitment, using the improvement of the governance system as an effective means to continually propel forward the new, grand project of Party building in the new era.
The article emphasizes that the construction of the Party in the new era is a comprehensive endeavor, with political construction at its core, and various aspects of Party building working in concert. The Party must adhere to and strengthen the central leadership of the CPC, ensure the implementation of the Party’s overall requirements for its development in the new era, and apply systemic thinking and scientific methods to advance all aspects of governance and discipline. The goal is to create a comprehensive system that is well-rounded, scientifically structured, and efficient in operation.
The article lays out five key measures for perfecting the system of comprehensive and strict Party governance:
- Building a Strong Organizational System: Ensure effective communication and execution across all levels.
- Building an Educational System: Cultivate loyalty and unity within the Party, strengthening its foundation.
- Building a Supervision System: Implement targeted and holistic management to maintain discipline.
- Building a Robust Institutional System: Establish a scientifically sound and practical framework of Party governance.
- Building a Clear Responsibility System: Define roles and expectations clearly to ensure accountability.
New Ideals Guiding New Journeys
Innovation Drives Hangzhou’s Development Forward
President Xi Jinping has emphasized that technological advancement must take the lead in the modernization of China, with innovation being the indispensable path. In Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, a city renowned for its innovation-driven development, this principle is coming to life in dramatic ways.
At the start of this new year, Hangzhou is pulsing with innovation. Four-legged robotic dogs are relentlessly testing their abilities across extreme terrains like cliffs and deserts. Meanwhile, the next generation of bionic hands, which can sense temperature and pressure, is on track for large-scale production this year. The domestic open-source AI model, DeepSeek, is also causing a surge of interest, with multiple industries eager to integrate its capabilities.
The vibrancy of Hangzhou’s innovation ecosystem is evident in the latest statistics: on average, over 280 new companies are launched every day, more than 70 patents are granted each day, and nearly 17 million yuan in funds are being directed toward startup tech firms. Innovation is not only a buzzword in Hangzhou—it’s the engine driving its high-quality development.
This commitment to technological innovation can be traced back to 2003, when Xi Jinping, then the Party Secretary of Zhejiang, proposed the “Digital Zhejiang” strategy. At the time, fewer than two out of every hundred households had a computer connected to the internet, and the concept of a “digital Zhejiang” was almost unfathomable to many. However, in a landmark speech during a visit to Hangzhou’s high-tech district, Xi envisioned a future where Hangzhou would transition from being known as “paradise for scenery” to “paradise for Silicon Valley” and “paradise for high technology.”
Fast forward to today, Hangzhou has not only embraced the digital age but is leading the way in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and digital economy. Under the guidance of Xi Jinping’s vision, Hangzhou continues to make great strides, strengthening its role as a hub for innovation in China. By creating a policy environment that nurtures these technological advances, the city has established a strong foundation for the future.
In his multiple visits to Zhejiang, Xi has urged the region to seize opportunities created by the digital transformation of industries and the rise of digital sectors, aiming to build clusters of internationally competitive emerging industries. Hangzhou has responded by establishing the Zhijiang Laboratory, which is at the forefront of brain-like computing, brain-machine interfaces, new semiconductor chips, and AI open-source platforms. The city has also set up AI innovation parks to foster a seamless integration of computing infrastructure, algorithm research, and real-world applications. To address the challenge of financing for tech startups, Hangzhou has established a 100-billion-yuan innovation fund.
Beyond providing financial support, Hangzhou is also tackling the issue of technological commercialization by establishing a “highway” for tech transfer. At the city’s Technology Transfer Center, a state-of-the-art AI model capable of analyzing the technological needs of over 96,000 companies has been upgraded to connect these needs with the products of tech innovators. This intelligent matching process creates a bridge between technological achievements and industry demand, helping to drive the city’s innovation ecosystem forward.
As innovation continues to accelerate in China, the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has called for a comprehensive reform of education, science, technology, and talent systems to support overall innovation. Hangzhou’s new “economic policy package” aligns with these national objectives, focusing 15% of existing industrial policy funds on fostering new productive forces. The city continues to invest in building a robust ecosystem of innovation, centered around universities and major scientific projects, ensuring that at least 80% of these projects involve collaboration with private enterprises. Zhejiang Province is also doubling down on deepening the integration of technological innovation and industrial transformation as the key to accelerating the creation of an innovative Zhejiang.
In short, Hangzhou is not just a city of the future—it is shaping that future with each technological breakthrough and innovation that emerges. And, as the saying goes, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Hangzhou, with its vibrant ecosystem, is doing just that.
New Year Marks Steady Progress in Major Aerospace Projects
As the new year begins, several major aerospace projects in China are advancing at an accelerated pace. A batch of newly developed aircraft is undergoing test flights and certification across various regions, while new models of launch vehicles are gearing up for their inaugural flights. The construction of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet networks is also progressing rapidly.
In Heilongjiang, the multi-purpose AC332 helicopter is undergoing cold-weather test flights and will become an important asset for aviation-based emergency rescue operations. In Shaanxi, the AG600 amphibious aircraft is preparing for its type certification, and soon it will be ready to perform both water and land-based operations.
In Shanghai, pilots of the domestically produced C919 large passenger aircraft are intensifying their training, with the production capacity of the C919 expected to reach 50 units this year.
From the blue skies to the vastness of space, China’s aerospace sector is pushing boundaries and reaching new heights. In Tianjin, the new-generation rocket manufacturing base is buzzing with activity, with several rockets, including the Long March 5, under production and assembly.
This year, China’s space station will welcome two crewed spacecraft and one cargo spacecraft, continuing its multi-disciplinary scientific experiments and technological tests. Numerous new rockets will be developed, with key technology verification and first launches scheduled. Reusable rocket tests will continue, and the low-Earth orbit satellite internet network is rapidly expanding. Moreover, China is poised to embark on a new journey of exploring asteroids and comets. The Tianwen-2 mission, slated to launch this year, will fly alongside a near-Earth asteroid, collect samples, and return them to Earth. From crewed space missions to deep space exploration, China’s space program is advancing steadily and soaring ever higher.
Major Infrastructure Projects Accelerate Construction Across the Country
At present, major infrastructure and energy projects across China are ramping up construction, injecting new momentum into the nation’s economic development.
Infrastructure Projects Moving Full Speed Ahead:
In the western region of China, the core components of the Western Land-Sea New Corridor’s Pinglu Canal are entering peak concrete pouring stages. At the Qishi Hub, one of the key engineering sites, over 2,000 workers and 300 pieces of machinery are working in unison to construct the ship lock’s main structure. Recently, the water-carrying corridor of the lock’s upper pier has been completed.
In Hainan, the Sanya Phoenix International Airport Phase III expansion project—part of the Free Trade Port’s airport cluster—is making remarkable progress. Workers are busy installing the new steel roof structure, and technologies like 5G and cloud computing are being employed to enhance the construction’s precision and efficiency. The Terminal 3 steel structure has begun to take shape, and when completed by the end of this year, the airport will be able to accommodate 30 million passengers annually, boosting Hainan’s position as an international aviation hub.
In the northern Shaanxi province, the first high-speed rail line extending westward has successfully completed tunneling and is now moving into the large-scale construction phase for the ballastless track. The bridge engineering for the project has reached 95% completion.
Energy Projects Speeding Up Construction
As the new year begins, energy projects across the country are accelerating their construction. In Liaoning, at a key project for the revitalization of Northeast China—the Panjin Huajin Amoy Chemical and Raw Materials Engineering site—nearly 5,000 construction workers are seizing the golden window of spring construction to fast-track the installation of equipment and steel structures. The project is already 60% complete and is expected to finish mechanical works by September. Once operational, it will become a major base for petrochemical and fine chemical industries in China.
In Jilin, the Daan Wind-Solar Green Hydrogen Ammonia Synthesis project is proceeding at full speed with the construction of its renewable energy facilities. This will be the country’s largest integrated green hydrogen ammonia project, producing 32,000 tons of green hydrogen and 180,000 tons of green ammonia annually, helping to cut carbon emissions by approximately 650,000 tons. In Chongqing, the “Xinjiang Power to Chongqing” UHV DC transmission project is progressing well. The electrical installation at the Yubei Converter Station is moving forward, and the project is set to be completed this year, enabling the transfer of over 36 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity to Chongqing annually.
Traditional Villages Attract Over 47 Million Tourists During Spring Festival
According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, during this year’s Spring Festival, traditional village celebrations across China attracted more than 47.2 million visitors, showcasing the remarkable success of preserving and revitalizing China’s traditional villages.
The festival was filled with lively performances, from suona (traditional wind instrument) performances to hands-on experiences in ancient glass-making techniques, to dragon and lantern festivals. By the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, a total of 5,473 traditional villages had held 11,853 events, drawing over 47 million visitors.
Currently, China has 8,155 villages listed on the national traditional village protection registry, with 16 provinces adding 5,028 villages to their provincial protection lists. While enhancing preservation efforts, many localities are also focusing on the revitalization and utilization of these villages, promoting industries such as leisure tourism and cultural creativity.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development announced that it will continue to support pilot projects for the protection of traditional villages, guiding regions to address infrastructure gaps and improve living conditions for villagers.
Significant Progress in the Protection of Ancient and Famous Trees
The State Forestry and Grassland Administration has reported positive progress in the protection of ancient and famous trees in China. Comprehensive surveys have been conducted, and a smart, precise management system has been established. Currently, there are 5.0819 million ancient and famous trees across the country, all of which are now logged in a centralized database, enabling targeted protection and management.
Ancient and famous trees are crucial as species resources, landscape assets, and ecological pillars. This year, efforts continue to rescue and rehabilitate endangered or weakened ancient trees. For instance, in Sichuan, the ancient cypress trees along the Sichuan-Tibet Highway are being carefully preserved with individualized protection plans. In Hunan, efforts are being made to protect rare and endangered tree species through seed collection and seedling cultivation.
The National Classics Museum Revives the Majestic Legacy of Yongle Palace
Today, on Cultural China (February 16), we take you on a journey to the National Classics Museum, where the exhibition “The Cultural Essence of Shanxi Yongle Palace and Digital Art Showcase” is being held. This stunning display offers visitors a chance to witness the intricate beauty of China’s only fully preserved Yuan Dynasty (1271–1368) official architectural complex.
In a brilliant fusion of tradition and technology, this exhibition presents cultural heritage through a fresh lens. The “Sanqing Hall Glazed Ridge, Piled Flower Ridge, and East-West Chiweng” (traditional roof ridge ornaments) have been placed in a 5D digital space. Visitors can experience this artwork in an immersive environment that combines the physical objects with a digital simulation, bringing to life the four seasons of the Yongle Palace. The intricate patterns on the Chiweng (mythical beast figures atop the roof), the delicate peacock-blue glaze—remarkably still gleaming after 700 years—are not just visually stunning but also demonstrate the seamless blend of aesthetics and practicality inherent in ancient Chinese architecture. These roof ridge ornaments were designed with lead-glazed tiles to resist moisture, protecting the wooden structures beneath while ensuring a tight seal to prevent the intrusion of rainwater.
The intricate carvings of dragons and flowers, combining wood and clay sculpture techniques, are meticulously crafted to reflect the Tang and Song dynasty (618–1279 and 960–1279) architectural style.
Through technologies like holographic displays, AI digital restoration, and more, the National Classics Museum is providing a novel cultural experience. By the end of January 2025, over 8.85 million visitors will have walked through the museum’s doors, marking a significant achievement in combining the physical with the digital in heritage preservation.
Enjoying the Blooming Beauty of Spring: A Seasonal Delight Across China
As early spring awakens across China, the land bursts with vitality, and people are indulging in the joys of flower viewing and scenic exploration, embracing the beauty of the season.
Plum Blossoms in Full Bloom
In Wumei Mountain Village, Dazhou, Sichuan, more than 60,000 acres of Umei plum blossoms unfold one by one. Amid the morning mist, clusters of pink and white blossoms blanket the mountaintops, creating a scene of ethereal beauty, as clouds swirl and light dances across the landscape. In Fuzhou, Fujian, the 3,000 plum trees in Gushan Meili are at their peak bloom, attracting admirers to enjoy the delicate blossoms of varieties like Zhu Sha, Gongfen, and Lv’e. In Nanjing, Jiangsu, the plum flowers in Plum Blossom Mountain are in full bloom, painting the hills with soft pink hues against the verdant backdrop, creating an idyllic spring scene.
Even in Beijing, the wax flowers (Xia Mei) are quietly unfolding in Beihai Park, where their bright yellow blossoms contrast beautifully with the red walls and ancient pavilions, perfectly capturing the essence of spring.
In Changzhou, Hunan, nearly 1,000 acres of cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a picturesque spring wonderland for visitors to stroll through, take photos, and capture memories. In Tengchong, Yunnan, over 130 varieties of camellias are competing to bloom in a stunning riot of colors, filling the air with spring’s fragrant promise.
In regions like Longnan, Jiangxi, and Gongcheng, Guangxi, vast expanses of pear blossoms create a beautiful mosaic of white across the hills, inviting people to wander among the blooms, basking in the serenity of spring.
Blossom Economy and Rural Revitalization
The “blossom economy” is fueling the integration of agriculture, culture, and tourism, boosting rural revitalization. In Wenxian County, Longnan, Gansu, the 40,000-acre canola flower fields are in full bloom. Local communities are building homestay bases, striving to develop unique rural towns. In the core area of the Xingyi World Geopark in Guizhou, 6,000 acres of canola flowers are creating golden ripples across the landscape, with events like flower field marathons and cycling tours showcasing the natural beauty of this geological wonder.
2025.2.16.China News Service
Housing Fund Policy Adjustments Across Various Cities
Recently, several cities, including Beijing, Changsha, and Xiamen, have rolled out new measures to optimize housing fund policies. These adjustments focus on increasing loan limits, supporting home purchases in different cities, improving rent withdrawals, and making it easier for flexible workers to contribute to their housing funds. These policies aim to ease the housing burden and make homeownership more accessible across the country.
Construction of the Second East Line of Sichuan Gas Transmission Accelerates
The “14th Five-Year Plan” major energy project—the second East Line of Sichuan Gas Transmission—is speeding up construction across the provinces of Hubei, Zhejiang, and Anhui. The 4,269-kilometer-long pipeline, which is expected to be completed by 2027, will deliver 20 billion cubic meters of gas annually. This expansion will increase the gas supply capacity and integrate with existing pipelines, providing greater energy security for the region.
Logistics Growth: 12.25% Increase in Container Volume at SCO Logistics Park
According to Nanjing Customs, the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization) Logistics Park in Lianyungang handled 58,700 TEUs of containers in January, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 12.25%. Since its establishment in 2015, the park has cumulatively handled 332 million tons of logistics, with a total revenue of 20.63 billion yuan as of January 2025.
Alashan Left Banner Airport Upgraded to a Regional Hub
The Alashan Left Banner Commuter Airport in Inner Mongolia has officially broken ground on its upgrade to a regional hub. With a total investment of 570 million yuan, the project is set to be completed by the end of the year. Upon completion, the airport will handle 650,000 passengers annually and 1,800 tons of cargo, expanding its capacity to serve the region’s growing transportation needs.
Weather: Cold Front and Rain Across China
The Central Meteorological Observatory has reported that a cold front will sweep across northern China, with temperatures dropping by 4 to 6°C, and up to 8°C in some areas. Strong winds of 5 to 6 levels will affect Beijing, Hebei, Liaoning, and Shandong. The southern regions, including the eastern part of Southwest China and South China, will experience light to moderate rainfall.
Penguin Conservation Efforts by China, Italy, and Korea
According to the 41st Chinese Antarctic Expedition team, the Adélie Penguin Conservation Area near the Qinling Station in Antarctica has seen approximately 29,000 pairs of penguins breeding this year. This conservation area, jointly established by China, Italy, and Korea in 2019, aims to protect the Adélie penguin, a representative species of Antarctica’s unique ecosystem.
Over 1,000 Swans Winter in Xinjiang’s Manas Wetland
Recent monitoring data reveals that over 1,000 swans have migrated to the Manas Wetlands in Xinjiang this winter—marking the first time the number has surpassed 1,000. The wetlands, with their vast water surfaces and healthy ecosystem, have become a stable wintering ground for swans since they were first recorded here in 2011.
2025.2.16.International News
38th African Union Summit Held in Addis Ababa
The 38th African Union (AU) Summit opened on February 15 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The theme of the summit is “Justice for Africans and their Descendants through Compensation.” The summit will focus on socioeconomic development, peace and security, and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki and UN Secretary-General António Guterres both emphasized the importance of addressing historical injustices, including colonialism, slavery, apartheid, and discrimination, which have hindered Africa’s development. Faki also highlighted the need for Africa to unite in addressing global challenges.
Djibouti Foreign Minister Elected as New Chair of AU Commission
On the same day, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, was elected as the new Chairperson of the AU Commission. Youssouf promised that the development of the African continent would be his top priority during his tenure.
Protests at Munich Security ConferHousing Fund Policy Adjustments Across Various Citiesence Over NATO and Arms Expansion
On February 15, the Munich Security Conference saw protests against NATO, military expansion, and arms exports. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot both voiced strong opposition to external interference, particularly from allies, in European matters. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris sparked controversy by criticizing Europe on issues such as democracy and immigration, meeting with Germany’s far-right party leader, which led to dissatisfaction within Germany’s governing parties.
Russia Claims Control Over More Settlements
Ukraine Reports Repelling Dozens of Russian Attacks
On February 15, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced that Russian forces continued targeting Ukrainian military infrastructure, including airfields and drone launch sites, while taking control of another settlement in the Donetsk region. Additionally, Russian air defense systems in regions like Volgograd and Kaluga successfully shot down 40 Ukrainian drones.
On the same day, the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported that, as of the afternoon, there had been 176 battles along the front lines. Ukrainian forces successfully repelled dozens of Russian attacks in the directions of Kupiansk and Pokrovsk.
US-Russia Talks Set for Saudi Arabia; Ukraine Not Invited
According to reports from both American and Russian media outlets on February 15, senior officials from the US and Russia are set to meet in Saudi Arabia next week, in preparation for a possible presidential summit later this month. The talks are expected to focus primarily on the ongoing Ukraine crisis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Ukraine has not been invited to participate in the high-level discussions between US and Russian officials.
Additionally, US Special Representative for Ukraine and Russia, Derek Hogan, remarked at the Munich Security Conference on February 15 that European nations would not be included in negotiations concerning Ukraine. Several European diplomats have indicated that leaders from multiple European countries may meet informally in Paris on February 17 to discuss the situation in Ukraine.
Israeli Airstrike in Southern Lebanon Causes Casualties
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on February 15 that the Israeli Air Force conducted a precise strike in southern Lebanon, targeting a key member of Hezbollah’s aerial unit. This individual was reportedly involved in directing drone strikes aimed at Israel. According to Lebanon’s state news agency, the strike resulted in two deaths and several injuries. Under the terms of the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel, Israeli forces were supposed to gradually withdraw from southern Lebanon by January 26, though this deadline has now been extended to February 18.
Canadian Ex-PMs Urge Protection of National Independence
On the eve of Canada’s National Flag Day, five former Canadian prime ministers issued a joint statement urging the nation to unite in defense of its values and sovereignty against perceived threats from the United States in both economic and political spheres. Additionally, Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre stated that Canada will “never become the 51st state” of the United States, emphasizing the country’s commitment to its independence.
Stampede at Indian Railway Station Leaves 18 Dead
On the night of February 15, a stampede at a railway station in New Delhi, India, tragically resulted in 18 fatalities and numerous injuries. The exact cause of the stampede is still under investigation. Local media reported that the incident occurred when large crowds were waiting on the platform to board a train bound for Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, where a major festival was being held. After the train arrived, pushing and shoving among passengers led to the deadly stampede. The Indian Ministry of Railways has set up a special committee to investigate the incident.
Snowstorm Causes Multi-Vehicle Collision in Sweden
Swedish media reported on February 15 that a severe snowstorm in the Uppsala region of eastern Sweden caused two major traffic accidents, resulting in a chain collision involving more than 100 vehicles. Over a hundred people were sent to the hospital for treatment, and the incident put immense strain on the local healthcare system. The local government has announced emergency measures and temporarily closed the affected roadways.
Flash Floods in the US; Mudslides in California Wildfire Areas
On February 15, heavy rainfall in the eastern United States, including Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee, led to flash floods, widespread road closures, and power outages. Kentucky declared a state of emergency due to the severe weather.
Meanwhile, the west coast, particularly California’s Los Angeles area, faced torrential rain, which triggered mudslides in areas recently ravaged by wildfires. This unexpected deluge forced residents in places like Malibu and Pacific Palisades to evacuate once again. Vehicles were trapped, and highways were submerged, as the region continues to recover from recent devastating fires.