New Ideas Lead the Way for a New Journey: The Acceleration of AI Innovation Drives China’s Industrial Transformation and Upgrade
General Secretary Xi Jinping has emphasized that accelerating the development of the next generation of artificial intelligence (AI) is a critical strategic tool for gaining the upper hand in global technological competition. It is also a crucial resource for advancing China’s technological leap, optimizing industries, and elevating overall productivity. This year, China’s AI capabilities have reached a new milestone, with various regions actively exploring the deep integration of AI into industries, empowering industrial upgrades and high-quality economic development.
At the start of this year, China’s AI sector achieved several significant breakthroughs. The homegrown large model DeepSeek gained global attention due to its open-source model and cost advantages, becoming the fastest application to reach 30 million daily active users. Hundreds of businesses across various sectors quickly adopted the technology, leading to a nationwide wave of intelligent transformation. The successful activation of the first self-developed Wan-Ka cluster marked a substantial leap in super-large-scale parallel computing capabilities.
Xi Jinping has always attached great importance to technological innovation and AI development. In 2018, the 19th Central Politburo’s ninth collective study focused on the “current state and trends of AI development.” General Secretary Xi analyzed the new characteristics of AI, pointing out that it is a strategic technology leading this wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation, with a strong “leading goose” effect that drives wide-reaching change. Accelerating the development of AI is a strategic issue concerning whether China can seize the opportunities of this new round of technological revolution and industrial transformation.
Since then, General Secretary Xi has issued numerous important directives, providing clear guidance for the development of the AI industry. In 2024, he reiterated the importance of promoting the deep integration of the internet, big data, AI, and the real economy, fostering and expanding the intelligent industry, and accelerating the development of new forms of productivity to provide fresh momentum for high-quality development. The Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China clearly identified AI as a strategic industry, promoting the digital transformation of all sectors and injecting new energy into economic growth.
A series of top-level policy designs have put China’s AI industry on a fast track: breakthroughs in AI chips continue to emerge, strengthening the hardware base; large model products are rapidly spreading, and the innovation ecosystem is continuously improving; various AI applications are deepening, with 302 generative AI services registered with the National Internet Information Office by the end of 2024. The core AI industry is now approaching a scale of nearly 600 billion yuan.
With the leadership of the “leading goose,” the industry is undergoing profound transformation and upgrade. This year, AI’s “leading goose” effect has driven deep industry-wide changes. In the battery production lines in Fujian, algorithms have pushed the yield rate to 99.9%. In the old oilfield base in Shaanxi, large model technology has built 19 industrial intelligent entities, increasing efficiency by nearly 30%. In Antarctica, newly deployed AI robots are capable of carrying 70 kg of equipment and conducting scientific explorations in extreme environments with temperatures as low as -60°C. Innovations are surging, and new industries and models are rapidly emerging, creating new economic growth points.
This year, the government will introduce policies focusing on three major categories of AI innovation: core AI infrastructure, intelligent products, and public support. These efforts will lead AI industry innovation tasks, accelerate ecosystem cultivation, and support regions like Shanghai and Beijing in building national AI innovation application pilot zones. Additionally, the “AI+” action will be advanced, leveraging China’s industrial advantages to foster deep integration of AI and manufacturing, continuously injecting fresh momentum for high-quality economic development.
The 14th National People’s Congress Standing Committee Concludes Its 14th Meeting
On the morning of the 25th, the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee concluded its 14th meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, with Chairman Zhao Leji presiding over the session.
The meeting approved the draft of the NPC Standing Committee’s work report. The Chairman’s meeting recommended delegating the task to Zhao Leji to represent the Standing Committee and report on the work at the 3rd Session of the 14th NPC.
The meeting also approved the report on the qualifications of individual representatives from the NPC Standing Committee’s qualifications review committee. Additionally, appointments were made for the vice chairpersons of the NPC Education, Science, Culture, and Health Committee and the NPC Environment and Resource Protection Committee. A few personnel changes were also made, including appointing Zhang Xinmin as the Deputy Secretary-General of the NPC Standing Committee.
Furthermore, the meeting approved the agenda for the 3rd Session of the 14th NPC, as well as the list of members of the Presidium and the Secretary-General. The preparation for the upcoming session has been set in motion.
After the meeting’s final votes, Zhao Leji gave a speech. He highlighted the ongoing second review of the Draft Law to Promote Private Economic Development, emphasizing the importance of incorporating suggestions from all parties to improve the law, and ensuring that the Party’s policies on promoting private economic development are fully implemented through legislation.
Zhao Leji also stressed that the preparation of the 3rd Session of the 14th NPC should be carried out meticulously according to the Party’s directives, creating an open, honest, and efficient atmosphere for the session. The Standing Committee members, specialized committees, and NPC staff should remain humble, listen attentively to representatives’ opinions, and focus on high-quality media coverage to ensure the session runs smoothly.
After the closing of the meeting, the Standing Committee held the 15th special lecture, with Chairman Zhao Leji presiding over the event. Deputy Minister of the Central Social Work Department, Liu Zheng, gave a lecture titled “In-depth Study and Implementation of General Secretary Xi Jinping’s Important Exposition on Advancing Modernization of Grassroots Governance.”
On the morning of the 25th, the 14th NPC Standing Committee held a swearing-in ceremony at the Great Hall of the People.
Zhao Leji Holds Talks with Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia
On the afternoon of the 25th, Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC), held talks at the Great Hall of the People with the Chairman of the State Great Khural of Mongolia, Amarbaysgalan.
Zhao Leji expressed that under the strategic guidance of the heads of state, China-Mongolia relations have maintained a steady development momentum, and mutually beneficial cooperation has yielded substantial results. Last year marked the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, with President Xi Jinping and President Khurelsukh exchanging congratulatory messages. China is willing to work with Mongolia to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state and promote the steady and long-term development of the China-Mongolia comprehensive strategic partnership.
Zhao Leji emphasized that the development of long-term and stable friendly relations is a strategic choice made by both China and Mongolia. The two sides should respect each other’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, as well as core interests and major concerns. China appreciates Mongolia’s firm adherence to the One-China principle and its support for China’s positions on Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, Hong Kong, and other issues. Both countries should pursue mutually beneficial cooperation, strengthen traditional fields such as mineral energy and infrastructure, and explore new areas of collaboration, such as the digital economy. The two nations should also reflect on history, jointly defend the international system centered around the United Nations, uphold the outcomes of World War II, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries.
Zhao Leji further emphasized that the NPC and the State Great Khural have maintained good relations for a long time. China is eager to enhance exchanges and cooperation at all levels of the legislative bodies, deepen exchanges on governance and administrative experience, and learn from each other’s legislative experiences in fields such as reform and opening-up, improving people’s livelihoods, and optimizing the business environment.
Zhao Leji also provided an introduction to the system of the People’s Congress, ahead of the upcoming Third Session of the 14th NPC.
Amarbaysgalan affirmed Mongolia’s unwavering commitment to the One-China principle and expressed the country’s willingness to deepen pragmatic cooperation across all sectors. The State Great Khural of Mongolia is eager to strengthen friendly exchanges with the NPC, take full advantage of the regular exchange mechanisms between the two legislative bodies, and contribute positively to the development of the China-Mongolia comprehensive strategic partnership.
Lobsang Jiangcun also participated in the talks.
Li Xi Attends the Mobilization and Deployment Meeting for the “Standardization, Rule of Law, and Regularization of Discipline Inspection and Supervision Work” Action
On the 25th, Li Xi, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Secretary of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, attended and addressed the “Standardization, Rule of Law, and Regularization of Discipline Inspection and Supervision Work” action mobilization and deployment meeting. He emphasized that discipline inspection and supervision organs must thoroughly study and implement Xi Jinping’s Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. They must carry out the “Standardization, Rule of Law, and Regularization” action to high standards, and create a disciplined, clean, and responsible inspection and supervision force capable of fighting and performing their duties with integrity, better fulfilling their mission in the new era.
Li Xi pointed out that the “Three Transformations” action is a concrete measure to implement Xi Jinping’s and the Party Central Committee’s important requirements for strengthening the discipline inspection and supervision teams. It embodies China’s firm support for the “Two Establishes” and adherence to the “Two Safeguards” principles. It is essential for the high-quality development of discipline inspection and supervision work in the new era and for successfully advancing the ongoing fight against corruption. The focus must be on strengthening political, capacity, style, and integrity building to ensure that the powers entrusted by the Party and the people are not abused and that the sword of justice remains unsullied.
Li Xi stressed that the action must focus on key areas, prioritizing breakthroughs in tackling pressing issues and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the “Three Transformations.” This includes improving the quality of case handling in line with rules, enhancing oversight and investigation capabilities, ensuring effective legal enforcement, and achieving political, legal, and social effects in unison. It is also crucial to improve the capacity of the inspection and supervision teams, build stronger organizations, enhance management, and better motivate cadres to take responsibility. The action must strengthen legal education and training, improve political and legal literacy, and equip personnel to apply legal thinking and methods in their work. Discipline inspection and supervision organs at all levels must strengthen leadership, assign responsibilities, avoid formalism, and ensure that results are achieved through diligent and effective work.
Youth in the West
Contributing to the High-Quality Development of Western China
Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, the western regions have made remarkable historical progress in economic and social development. In response to national calls, a large number of young people have dedicated themselves to the west, settling in grassroots communities, and contributing their youthful energy to the development of the region. The “Serving the Motherland, Building the West” series of reports by CCTV’s News Broadcasthighlights the efforts of young talents in Xinjiang, Guizhou, Inner Mongolia, and other areas, working diligently to support high-quality development in the west.
Wang Xiaogang, the Party Secretary of Tashkurgan Township in Kashgar, Xinjiang, is currently preparing for the development of an agricultural and cultural tourism integration project. After graduating from university in 2011, Wang joined the “College Students Volunteer Service to the West” program and was assigned to Xinjiang. After completing his volunteer term, he decided to stay and settle in the grassroots of Bachu County, a desert-edge area. Nine years later, in 2022, he moved to Tashkurgan, where, leveraging the region’s unique landscapes and customs, he led the development of homestays and rural tourism. In 2024, Tashkurgan’s tourism revenue reached 7.9 million yuan.
In Zunyi, Guizhou, Xu Wei and his team are working on strawberry cultivation techniques in a “plant factory.” After earning his master’s degree from Zhejiang University, Xu worked in the internet industry in Hangzhou. In 2017, he was recruited as a high-level talent to Zunyi. In 2019, he responded to the city’s call for professional talents to support rural revitalization, and started a greenhouse strawberry business in Sidu Town. Xu plans to expand the model to coastal cities, further helping farmers increase income and develop modern, efficient agriculture.
Guizhou has implemented the “40 Youth Matters” for four consecutive years to help young people thrive and contribute to the province’s growth. Since 2023, Guizhou has optimized its talent introduction program, attracting top-tier professionals, including 138 leaders and 229 outstanding talents, significantly improving both the quantity and quality of talent recruitment.
At Inner Mongolia University of Science and Technology’s Laboratory of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Sai Huazheng and Fu Rui are conducting cutting-edge research. After completing postdoctoral studies at Tsinghua University in 2018 and receiving their doctoral degrees from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the couple chose to leave the better opportunities in big cities and move to Baotou. Their research on the high-value utilization of abandoned tailings and coal gangue has been instrumental in local resource optimization. Inner Mongolia has invested significantly in attracting high-quality talent to support the construction of a modern industrial system and high-quality development in the western regions.
RCEP Celebrates Three Years of Implementation, Driving High-Quality Regional Economic Development
This year marks the third anniversary of the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). As the world’s largest free trade agreement in terms of population size, economic scale, and growth potential, RCEP has made significant strides since its enactment. Over the past three years, the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment have steadily progressed, ushering in a new era of regional cooperation and shared development.
According to customs statistics, over the three years since RCEP came into effect, China’s total imports and exports with other RCEP member countries have reached 38.57 trillion yuan, with the scale of goods trade consistently accounting for over 30% of China’s total foreign trade. In 2024, China’s trade with other RCEP member states reached 13.16 trillion yuan, reflecting a 4.5% year-on-year increase, signaling the continued vitality of regional cooperation.
Under RCEP rules, over 90% of products within the region will gradually enjoy zero tariffs, significantly promoting trade liberalization and economic integration within the area. Perishable goods can now clear customs within six hours of arrival, and general goods are cleared within 48 hours, further enhancing operational efficiency.
As the largest economy in the RCEP region, China has actively driven the high-quality implementation of the agreement. For instance, in Zhejiang, Ningbo-Zhoushan Port launched a new RCEP shipping route to Malaysia in February this year, drastically reducing logistics costs for businesses.
In recent years, more and more domestic cities, such as Qingdao, Guangzhou, Xiamen, and Dalian, have introduced dedicated air routes to RCEP member countries, further fostering trade and economic exchanges and propelling regional economies into a new phase of efficient, collaborative growth.
Representative Stories: Tao Xunhua – Enhancing Digital Rural Development to Assist Rural Revitalization
En la actualidad Representative Stories segment (February 25th), we meet Tao Xunhua, a National People’s Congress representative from the front lines of rural revitalization—specifically the Party Secretary of Minjiang Village in Shou’an Town, Wenjiang District, Chengdu.
At 54 years old, Tao has dedicated 20 years to rural work, with a focus on expanding and strengthening rural industries. Recently, she has been conducting research on tourism projects in her village.
With the advent of 5G and other digital technologies, rural revitalization in China has entered a rapid development phase. During the 2024 National People’s Congress sessions, Tao proposed enhancing infrastructure to solidify the foundation for digital rural development, which received a positive response from the Cyberspace Administration of China. During her research, Tao also found that provincial departments are working together to speed up the construction of digital rural infrastructure. In April last year, the “Full Coverage of Tianfu” special action was launched, aiming for 100% 5G coverage across 26,000 administrative villages by the end of 2024.
The continuous improvement of hardware facilities has provided a solid foundation for digital rural development. After in-depth research, Tao realized that to maximize the benefits of digital technology, further integration of resources is needed. At the upcoming National People’s Congress, Tao plans to propose the creation of a data platform to integrate rural industry dynamics and public service data, enabling more efficient and precise resource allocation, which will empower rural industry development and governance, thus driving comprehensive rural revitalization.
Springtime Brings a Surge in Cultural Tourism
As the temperature rises and the spring season unfolds, people are stepping out to enjoy the blooming flowers and scenic views, fueling the increasingly popular “spring economy.”
Across China, spring flowers are blooming in succession. In Beijing, wax plums have reached full bloom in iconic spots like the Summer Palace and Xiangshan Park. At the Ming City Wall Ruins Park, plum blossoms are starting to appear along the ancient city walls, drawing large crowds of citizens and tourists. This spring, over 40 prime flower-viewing spots will be showcased in Beijing’s municipal parks, offering an immersive experience of flower viewing, exhibitions, intangible cultural heritage displays, and shopping.
In Chongqing, the monorail winds its way through a sea of pink beautiful plum blossoms, creating a stunning spring scene that attracts a steady stream of visitors. In Guangzhou, Guangdong, yellow-flowered tabebuia trees bloom along the riverside pedestrian paths, with cultural activities tied to the flower season enriching the visitor experience. In Yangzhou, Jiangsu, over 10,000 plum trees are quietly blossoming at Slender West Lake, with a plum blossom art festival, bonsai displays, and intangible cultural heritage markets. In the past week alone, Slender West Lake has received an average of 20,000 visitors daily, reflecting a 45% year-on-year increase in foot traffic.
Flower-themed tourism is also becoming a bright spot in rural revitalization. In Yongfu Town, Zhangping, Fujian, over 100,000 vibrant cherry blossoms have bloomed, with cherry blossom tourism driving income for nearly 10,000 local farming households. In Xiangyang Town, Hechi City, Guangxi, the town’s 10,000-acre plum orchards are in full bloom, effectively boosting local rural tourism. In places like Baoshan, Yunnan and Longnan, Gansu, fields of golden rapeseed flowers are attracting many tourists, and the related cultural tourism industries have provided employment opportunities for surrounding villagers.
Noticiario nacional
China Introduces Measures to Strengthen Entrepreneurial Support Systems
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the Ministry of Education, and five other departments recently issued a set of guidelines, proposing the establishment of a comprehensive entrepreneurial support system. This system integrates “entrepreneurial training, services, incubation, and activities,” while launching initiatives to nurture entrepreneurs. Additionally, the plan includes creating resource connection platforms and facilitating the transfer and continuation of social insurance across regions, supporting the mobility of entrepreneurs across different areas.
Central Government to Support County-Level Charging and Swapping Facilities
According to the Ministry of Finance, a pilot program to strengthen charging and swapping facilities will be launched in 75 counties this year. The central government will use a “reward-for-subsidy” model to assist these counties in constructing and operating public charging infrastructure and upgrading power grids. During the demonstration phase, participating counties could receive up to 45 million yuan in reward funds.
Ministry of Education Kicks Off “Educator Spirit” 2025 National Tour
On February 25th, the first lecture of the “Educator Spirit” 2025 national tour was held in Beijing. The tour, themed “Vigorously Promoting Educator Spirit, Accelerating the Construction of a Strong Educational Nation,” will travel across 11 provinces and cities from February 26th to 28th, showcasing the efforts of outstanding teachers and their contributions to education.
Significant Progress in Tackling TV “Nested Charges” and Complex Operations
The National Radio and Television Administration reported significant progress in addressing the issue of “nested charges” and complex operations on television platforms. Over the past year, measures have ensured that 285 million households continue to access live TV broadcasts while reducing bundled charges. Furthermore, 183,000 hotels have adopted simplified TV viewing systems, and there are plans to roll out 11.3 million set-top boxes with integrated remotes nationwide this year, further enhancing the television viewing experience.
Shandong Launches Major Projects with Over Half of Investments from Private Enterprises
Shandong has launched a batch of major projects, with a total investment exceeding 1.04 trillion yuan. Over 1,000 projects will focus on cutting-edge sectors such as next-generation information technology, artificial intelligence, integrated circuits, and the low-altitude economy. Notably, private enterprises account for more than half of the number and total investment of these projects.
First “Thousand Enterprises Xiong’an Tour” of 2025 Held
On February 25th, Beijing and Hebei jointly hosted the first “Thousand Enterprises Xiong’an Tour” of 2025 in Xiong’an New Area. During the event, 10 new products and technologies from the Zhongguancun area in Xiong’an were unveiled. Representatives from AI, aerospace, and other industries, along with university researchers, participated in exchange activities.
Russia Claims Control of Settlement in Kharkiv, Ukraine Responds with Multiple Attacks
On February 24th, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced that Russian forces had taken control of the Topoli settlement in Kharkiv. Russian troops also repelled multiple Ukrainian offensives in areas like Kupiansk, while Russia’s air defense systems intercepted and shot down 71 Ukrainian drones.
On the same day, Ukraine reported several battles on the frontlines. Ukrainian forces repelled Russian attacks in the Kharkiv region and launched multiple offensives in areas like Pokrovsk and Kursk.
UN Security Council Passes Resolution on Ukraine, Calls for Rapid End to Conflict
On February 24th, the UN Security Council held a meeting on the Ukraine crisis and passed a resolution calling for a rapid end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the achievement of lasting peace. The resolution, submitted by the United States, was approved with 10 votes in favor, none against, and 5 abstentions from the UK, France, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia.
Russia’s permanent representative to the UN, Vasily Nebenzya, stated that the resolution marked the beginning of further efforts to peacefully resolve the Ukraine crisis.
The Chinese representative expressed support for all efforts aimed at peace, including the consensus reached between the US and Russia to initiate peace talks. China hopes that all parties involved will engage in negotiations to find a just and lasting solution that addresses everyone’s concerns and results in a binding peace agreement accepted by all parties.
Noticias internacionales
Putin Says Europe Must Participate in Ukraine Crisis Negotiations
On February 24th, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Europe must be involved in the negotiation process concerning the Ukraine crisis. He emphasized that Russia has never rejected Europe’s participation in talks, but rather, it was Europe that had previously refused to engage with Russia. Putin further added that to resolve issues such as the Ukraine crisis, both Russia and the United States should take the first step in building mutual trust. He noted that Russian and American companies have already started engaging in discussions regarding potential collaboration, and Russia plans to resume exporting aluminum to the U.S.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also stated on the same day that Russia is ready to negotiate with both Ukraine and Europe. However, he made it clear that Russia would only cease military actions if an agreement is reached that satisfies its needs. A key condition for Russia to halt military operations is that Ukraine must not be allowed to join NATO.
Prueba el hexagrama I Ching de hoy：Diario Hexagrama del I Ching en línea Herramienta
Zelensky Says Ukraine’s Peace and Security Depend on European Unity
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on February 24th that he had met with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Charles Michel. The discussions focused on the development of Ukraine’s defense industry and investment in enhancing Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities. All parties agreed that achieving a fair and lasting peace and ensuring Ukraine’s security requires European unity. The European Union has pledged to provide Ukraine with a €3.5 billion support package in March.
Palestinian Authorities Condemn Israeli Aggression in West Bank and Beyond
On February 24th, Palestinian officials from the West Bank reported that several Israeli bulldozers had entered the Jenin refugee camp area. Israeli forces are believed to be preparing for a long-term presence in the region. The Israeli military confirmed that it continues its search and arrest operations in Jenin, capturing six individuals and seizing some weapons.
The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) organization condemned Israel’s actions, asserting that Israel aims to forcibly remove Palestinians from their land. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also issued a statement strongly condemning Israel’s escalating aggression in Gaza and the West Bank, highlighting the growing displacement of Palestinian people as a consequence of these actions.
Delta Airlines Flight Forced to Return Due to Cabin Smoke
On February 24th, a Delta Airlines flight was forced to return to Atlanta, Georgia, shortly after takeoff due to smoke in the cabin. The flight, a Boeing 717, was carrying 99 passengers who had to evacuate the aircraft as a precaution. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the cause of the incident. This follows a similar occurrence on February 22nd, when a Delta Airlines flight, en route from Los Angeles to Sydney, Australia, also had to return to the airport after smoke was detected in the cabin, despite carrying 162 passengers.