Let's seize the day and live it to the full

President Xi Jinping delivered a New Year speech on Tuesday evening in Beijing to ring in 2020. "Let's seize the day and live it to the full," Xi said. Here are some highlights:

On GDP

China's gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to near 100 trillion yuan ($14.37 trillion) in 2019.

China's per capita gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to reach $10,000 in 2019.

On poverty relief

Around 340 poor counties across China will get rid of poverty and more than 10 million people will be lifted out of poverty by the end of 2019.

A victory will be secured in the battle against poverty in 2020.

All rural residents living below the current poverty line will be lifted out of poverty and poverty will be eliminated in all poor counties in 2020.

On major achievements

Xi also mentioned several significant achievements during 2019, such as China's lunar probe Chang'e 4 landing on the far side of the Moon, the launch of the Long March 5 rocket and the opening of Beijing Daxing International Airport.

On cutting taxes, fees

China has cut over 2 trillion yuan (around $287 billion) of taxes and fees in 2019.

On national defense and military reforms

In the speech, Xi stressed China's efforts in pushing forward reforms in national defense and military systems in 2019.

A grand military parade was held in Beijing on National Day on Oct1 to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

He meanwhile highlighted the 70th anniversary celebrations for the establishment of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy and the PLA Air Force.

Also in the past year, China hosted the 7th Military World Games, and the country's first self-developed aircraft carrier was commissioned.

"The people's army will always serve as a great wall of steel that guards our country," Xi stressed.

On diplomatic relations

Four major events were hosted at home in the past year, which the president said showcased a civilized, open and inclusive China to the rest of the world.

China continues to embrace the world in 2019, and the number of countries China has established diplomatic relations with has reached 180.

"We have friends all over the world," Xi said.

On Hong Kong

Xi extended best wishes to Hong Kong and Hong Kong compatriots.

"The situation in Hong Kong has been everybody's concern over the past few months," said Xi.

"Without a harmonious and stable environment, how can there be a home where people can live and work happily!" Xi said. "We sincerely hope for the best for Hong Kong and Hong Kong compatriots."

A prosperous and stable Hong Kong is the aspiration of Hong Kong compatriots, as well as the expectation of the people of the motherland, he said.

Source: Chinadaily.com.cn, CGTN

Author：CD君

Editor：Vapor